Category: PM News

Business leaders, academics and international officials have expressed hopes that U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming state visit to China will help stabilise China-U.S. relations and expand cooperation between the world’s two largest economies amid growing global uncertainty.

At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump will pay a state visit to China from May 13 to 15.

The two presidents first met in 2017, a year marked by an exchange of state visits that set the tone for their interactions. Xi and Trump last met in October 2025 in Busan, the Republic of Korea.

Over the years, head-of-state diplomacy has played a key role in steering China-U.S. relations and maintaining stability despite shifting global conditions.

Since Trump’s re-election, Xi has spoken with him by phone five times, maintaining communication on bilateral ties and international issues.

Analysts and business representatives said closer communication and cooperation between China and the U.S would benefit not only the two countries, but also the broader global economy.

“Honestly, the biggest trading partners in the world are China and the United States, and the fact is, we can’t ignore that.

“We need to be working together in some way, in partnership, in an honest and, I think, direct way so that we can continue to build our economies and continue to bring some prosperity to the world, but also in particular to our countries,” said John E. Drew, chairman of the World Trade Centers Association.

Anthony Moretti, department head and associate professor at the School of Communication and Media at Robert Morris University in Pennsylvania, said the international community was looking for a positive outcome from the upcoming visit amid global instability.

“There’s no question that anytime you get the U.S. president and the Chinese president together, it’s good news. We, the global community, need more of that.

“The reason that I think is particularly important now goes back to that whole idea again of the U.S. having really set up a very unstable international situation.

“Right now, the world is looking for a successful visit, and President Trump can be sure to deliver that if he wants to,” Moretti said.

Jim Sutter, chief executive officer of the U.S. Soybean Export Council, said he had seen a genuine desire from both governments and businesses to improve bilateral relations.

“I mean, I just sense a real, sincere desire to see the relationship between China and the U.S. at a governmental level and also at a business level, to see that improving.

“I think there is this recognition that we are better together, that’s sort of a saying that we like to use.

“But I think it’s very appropriate in this case that if we can work together, recognising there are going to be these differences, but if we can work together, we’ll both be better off.

“And I very much believe the whole world would be better off,” Sutter said.

International observers have also voiced hopes that stronger dialogue and cooperation between China and the U.S. could bring greater stability and certainty to the world economy.

“I’m certainly appreciative of the efforts by the two governments to deal with their outstanding issues through dialogue, and we encourage them to keep up with the track of dialogue to resolve any differences that they may have.

“The United States and China are two of the main economic powerhouses of the world.

“And any way that they can deal with any of their differences in economic policies would be beneficial for the world as a whole,” said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the U.N. secretary-general, at Monday’s regular press briefing at UN Headquarters in New York.

Jasper Roctus, senior associate fellow at the Royal Institute for International Relations in Brussels, said growing economic interdependence had made cooperation increasingly important in today’s world.

“So I think that’s very good. We are now living in a world where most countries are interconnected with each other economically.

“This means that the price of conflict, even economic conflict, is much higher than it used to be in the past.

“So indeed, the fact that we are still seeing each other despite certain disagreements is also related to the fact that we are interconnected and we should recognise that,” Roctus said.

Sizo Nkala, research fellow at the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg, said countries across the Global South were closely watching the meeting.

“(The meeting) between President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump is quite important because, one, it demonstrates that the two leaders take the relationship between the U.S. and China seriously and they are committed to making it work not only for them as countries but for the world at large.

“From a Global South perspective, China and the U.S. are the anchors of the global economy.

“They control more than 40 per cent of global GDP, and the decisions they make have serious repercussions on countries like South Africa and in the broader Global South.

“So they will be watching and hoping for a positive outcome from these talks,” Nkala said.

(AAN/NAN)

Carlo Ancelotti, the current head coach of the Brazil national team and former Real Madrid manager, has expressed support for Jose Mourinho potentially returning to manage Real Madrid.

Speaking in an interview with The Athletic, Ancelotti said he would be very happy if Mourinho goes back to the Spanish club.

He described Mourinho as a strong and experienced coach who knows how to handle big teams and pressure situations.

According to Ancelotti, Mourinho is the right person to help restore order and stability at Real Madrid, especially during challenging periods.

He believes Mourinho has the qualities needed to manage top players and compete for major trophies.

Jose Mourinho is reportedly expected to leave Benfica at the end of the season, and there are growing rumours that he could return to Real Madrid, a club he previously managed between 2010 and 2013.

During his earlier spell at Real Madrid, Mourinho built a strong team that competed fiercely with rivals like Barcelona.

Interestingly, Ancelotti later replaced him in 2013 and went on to win the UEFA Champions League title known as “La Decima” for the club.

Despite their history, Ancelotti spoke positively about Mourinho, saying he has succeeded at every club he has managed and can still deliver high-level results if he returns to Madrid.

He added that seeing Mourinho back at the Bernabeu would make him happy personally, because he respects his coaching ability and experience at the top level of football.

By Farouq Umar Khadijah

A 40- year-old University of Abuja law student, Monday Goodluck was on Wednesday remanded in Kuje prison by FCT High Court for allegedly raping a 100 -level Medicine and Surgery student.

Goodluck was arraigned by the police on a -two- count charge bordering on rape and causing physical injury.

The Prosecution Counsel, Alexander Agbo, alleged that the defendant sexually assaulted the 100-level medical student in his house.

The prosecution alleged that the defendant tricked the victim into believing that he has the link for her too get approved for the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

He alleged that the incident occurred at the residence of the defendant about 11pm on March 25,.

Agbo said the offence is punishable under Section 1 (1) and (2) of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015.

Goodluck ‘s offence also included causing physical injury and inflicting fear by shoving fingers into the victim ‘s mouth in an attempt to prevent her from screaming.

This, Agbo said, is punishable under Section 2 (1) of The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2025.

The defendant however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Justice M.S Idris, the trial judge gave the order for the remand of the suspect after rejecting oral bail application from his Counsel, Mr Samson Francis.

The judge remanded Goodluck in Kuje Correctional Facility pending the determination of his bail application.

The defendant counsel, Francis prayed the court to admit his client to bail orally but was denied by the court.

Justice Idris directed him to file a written bail application and serve same to the prosecution.

Justice Idris then adjourned the matter until June 9 for further hearing.

(NAN)

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Police in Kano have arraigned seven suspects in court over political thuggery that occurred around Farm Centre GSM market, penultimate Monday, when thugs invaded the market, looted phones and other valuables, while trailing the convoy of a senatorial aspirant.

A statement by the Kano Police Command spokesperson, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, indicated that: “Further to the press release issued on the thuggery attack at Farm Centre GSM Market Kano on 28th April 2026, the Kano State Police Command wishes to update the public on the progress of investigation and prosecution.

“Following discreet and intelligence-led investigation, operatives of the Command identified and arrested two additional suspects connected to the incident.”

Kiyawa named the two suspects to include: Sadiq Ayuba (18) of Darmanawa Quarters, Kano; and Abdulganiyu Abba (38) of Mariri Quarters, Kano.

According to Kiyawa, during interrogation, Sadiq Ayuba confessed that he and other suspects were mobilized and paid by one Mallam Hassan (now at large), to carry out an attack on Farm Centre GSM Market and on the entourage of A.A Zaura, a Kano Central Senatorial aspirant under the All Progressive Congress (APC).

The attack led to destruction of businesses and property.

They damaged a Toyota Ambulance motor vehicle belonging to the entourage, and a tricycle belonging to one Shamsuddeen Sani.

Kiyawa added that, “with these arrests, the total number of suspects apprehended in connection with the incident now stands at seven.

“All seven suspects were today, 13th May 2026, arraigned before Magistrate Court Number 2, Nomansland, Kano, for prosecution on charges relating to criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, joining unlawful assembly, armed with deadly weapons, and mischief.”

The Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, Mr. Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, reiterated that the Command will not relent in its efforts to identify and bring to justice all individuals and sponsors behind violent thuggery and public disturbances in the State.

He assured that manhunt for the fleeing principal suspect, Mallam Hassan, is ongoing.

CP Bakori commended the public for providing credible information that aided the investigation and urged residents to continue supporting the Police with timely intelligence to ensure Kano remains safe and peaceful.

He said the Command remains committed to upholding law and order and ensuring that perpetrators of violence face the full weight of the law.

The family of popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has confirmed that he died after a brief battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer.

In a statement posted on the late actor’s Instagram page, @alexxekubo, on Wednesday, the family said Ekubo died at Evercare Hospital from complications linked to the illness.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke,” the statement read.

The announcement brought an end to speculations surrounding the actor’s health after concerns grew over his prolonged absence from the public space and social media.

The family said the actor endured his illness quietly and with hope, describing him as a man who faced his final days with courage and faith.

“Throughout this difficult journey, he bore his pain with remarkable strength, unwavering faith and enduring hope, believing that one day his testimony would be shared with the world,” the family said.

Ekubo, known for his charismatic screen presence and polished roles in romantic dramas and comedy films, was one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces over the last decade.

His death has triggered an outpouring of grief across Nigeria’s entertainment industry, with actors, filmmakers and fans mourning a performer many described as warm, private and deeply supportive behind the scenes.

Several colleagues had earlier shared emotional tributes online, recalling moments with the actor and expressing shock over the news of his death at 40 years.

The family appealed for privacy as they mourned, while asking the public to remember the late actor in prayers.

The family said funeral arrangements and other details would be communicated later.

“We sincerely thank everyone for the love, support, prayers, and understanding extended to the family throughout this period,” the statement concluded.

Ekubo rose to fame after placing as first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria contest and went on to build a successful acting career, starring in several Nollywood productions that earned him a loyal fan base across Africa.

After 15 years covering the gambling industry, I’ve seen a lot of “revolutionary” promises that turned out to be minor tweaks dressed up in press releases. But what’s happening right now feels genuinely different. The combination of AI, blockchain, and immersive tech isn’t just changing how casinos look it’s rewriting what a casino fundamentally is.

So what does the top casino of the future actually look like? I’ve been thinking hard about this, and the answer isn’t a single technology. It’s a stack.

;hThe Shift Already Happening in 2025 and 2026;/h Let’s start with what’s already in motion. According to the American Gaming Association’s 2026 State of the States report, U.S. commercial gaming hit a record $78.72 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2025 a 9.2% increase year-over-year. iGaming alone crossed $10.73 billion, up 27.6% from 2024. In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, online casino revenue surpassed land-based casinos for the first time ever. Those aren’t niche numbers. That’s a mainstream industry accelerating fast.

The catalyst? Crypto gambling sites have normalized instant, borderless payments. When you can deposit and withdraw in seconds using a dozen different tokens Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins the friction that used to drive players away simply disappears. The best platforms now support multi-chain compatibility, meaning players aren’t locked into one asset. You deposit in Solana, win, and withdraw in USDC if you want. No fees, no waiting three business days.

That’s table stakes now. The real competition is elsewhere.

;hAI Isn’t Just a Chatbot Anymore;/h Most people, when they hear “AI in casinos,” picture a customer service bot. That’s thinking too small. The number one casino of the future will use AI the way top e-commerce platforms use recommendation engines invisibly, constantly, and effectively.

Here’s what that looks like in practice. AI analyzes your betting history, game preferences, and session patterns to surface games you’ll actually enjoy. It adjusts bonus offers in real time based on what motivates you specifically, not what the marketing team thought would work for everyone. And on the responsibility side, it flags problematic patterns before they become crises a feature regulators are increasingly demanding.

There’s also the dealer side. AI dealers already host fully animated table games at some online platforms in 2025, managing gameplay and assisting players around the clock. They don’t get tired, they don’t make errors, and they’re available at 3 a.m. on a Tuesday. Reports from the casino.org analysis in January 2026 noted that AI predictive analytics helped increase late-night casino revenues by over 20%. That’s a meaningful number.

For players who want an edge on the sports side, tools focused on AI for betting predictions have become part of how serious bettors approach strategy. The top casino of the future will likely integrate these kinds of analytical tools natively, rather than leaving players to find them elsewhere.

;hThe VR Question (And Why It’s Not Quite Ready But Almost);/h Virtual reality gambling is the technology that’s been “five years away” for about ten years now. But in 2025 and 2026, the gap between hype and reality has narrowed considerably.

Metaverse casinos platforms that blend VR, blockchain, and social gaming are real and operational. Players create avatars, walk through 3D casino environments, sit at poker tables with other players, and interact with live or AI dealers. The Decentraland and Sandbox ecosystems already host gambling spaces. The technology enables things that were previously impossible online: reading opponent body language cues in poker, experiencing the ambient sounds of a casino floor, or feeling the social energy of a shared space.

Is VR gambling fully mainstream yet? No, honestly. Headset adoption is still the bottleneck. But the hardware curve is steepening. And the platforms that will dominate the next decade are being built right now.

What makes VR genuinely interesting isn’t just the visual immersion it’s the social layer. The number one crypto gambling site of the future won’t just be a game library. It’ll be a social environment where players recognize each other, build reputations, join communities, and engage with the platform the way gamers engage with MMORPGs.

;hDecentralization and the DAO Model;/h This is the part that casino executives probably find most disruptive. In 2026, a growing number of crypto casinos are experimenting with DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) structures. Through governance tokens, players vote on new game releases, platform changes, or how profits get allocated. You’re not just a customer. You’re effectively a partial owner.

The provably fair model where cryptographic proofs let any player verify the randomness of any result is becoming a baseline expectation. Smart contracts handle payouts automatically, eliminating the need to trust the platform’s word that your withdrawal will arrive. Either the code executes or it doesn’t. It usually does.

Analysts tracking blockchain gaming predict the global market could surpass $80 billion by 2028, with crypto casinos accounting for a significant portion. Major traditional operators are already building blockchain integrations to stay competitive.

;table ;tbody . ;tr ;tdFeature ;tdTraditional Casino ;tdFuture Top Casino ;/tr tdPayments ;tdBank transfer, card (2-5 days) ;tdMulti-chain crypto, instant ;/tr ;tr ;tdFairness verification ;tdTrust the operator ;tdProvably fair, on-chain ;/tr ;tr ;tdPersonalization ;tdandgteneric bonuses ;tdAI-driven, individual ;/tr tdandgtovernance ;tdOperator-controlled ;tdToken-holder voting (DAO) ;/tr ;tr ;tdEnvironment ;td2D interface ;tdVR/metaverse optional ;/tr tdLoyalty ;tdPoints systems ;tdNFT-based rewards, rakeback ;/tr ;/tbody ;/table ;hWhat the Loyalty Programs of the Future Look Like;/h NFT-based loyalty programs might sound like a gimmick. They’re probably not. By 2026, some platforms already offer NFTs that carry permanent rakeback a percentage of the house edge returned to the player indefinitely. That’s structurally different from a points system that expires or gets devalued. You earn an NFT, it retains value, and it keeps working for you as long as you hold it.

Combine that with tiered governance rights (more tokens = more voting power) and you have a loyalty structure that genuinely aligns player interests with platform success. Whether that scales to mass adoption is unclear. But for the segment of players who understand it, it’s a powerful proposition.

;hThe Regulatory Layer Nobody Wants to Talk About;/h Here’s the honest complication. All of this technology exists in a patchwork of legal frameworks. Jurisdictions like Malta, Gibraltar, and Curacao have moved toward clearer frameworks for crypto gambling AML compliance, responsible gaming mandates, data protection standards. But most of the world is still figuring it out.

The top casino of the future will need to operate under multiple regulatory frameworks simultaneously, with geofencing that automatically adjusts what’s offered based on where you are. That’s technically solvable. The harder problem is designing for compliance without sacrificing the user experience that made these platforms attractive in the first place.

It’s a genuine tension, and I don’t think anyone has fully cracked it yet.

;hPutting It Together;/h So what’s the number one casino of the future? Based on everything I’ve tracked over the past few years, it probably looks something like this: a crypto-native platform with instant multi-chain payments, AI-personalized game recommendations and bonuses, optional VR environments for immersive play, provably fair smart-contract mechanics, a DAO governance layer giving players genuine ownership stakes, and NFT-based loyalty rewards that retain real value.

That’s not science fiction. Most of these components exist today in some form. The casino that assembles them into a coherent, user-friendly experience and does it without getting buried under regulatory problems will likely dominate the next decade of online gambling.

I’ve been wrong before about timing. But not about

By Sunday Dare

From Equatorial Guinea to Tanzania, from Accra to Addis Ababa, and now, from Nairobi to Kigali, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with sartorial elegance and swashbuckling confidence, is traversing Africa preaching Nigeria’s reform story to the world.

While the echoes of President Tinubu’s economic reforms have since reverberated across every nook and cranny of Africa, he now personally berths in Kigali to make perhaps, the most important and compelling pitch of his Presidency — an investor proposition of promise and a full blown business case of opportunity.

The message is simple: Nigeria remains one of the most profitable investment destinations on earth.

It is one of the few places globally where return on investment in properly scaled businesses can rise up to 600 percent post-startup. In several sectors, investors have recorded growth trajectories far beyond what conventional business planning models projected at entry point.

Most global feasibility and business planning tools project returns in the region of 2025% over time. Nigeria, however, has repeatedly defied those assumptions because of one defining factor: scale.

Scale of population. Scale of unmet demand. Scale of consumption.Scale of expansion and now, scale of reform.

Nothing prepared MTN Group for the scale of market dominance and profitability it would eventually achieve after entering Nigeria in 2001. Business projections may have anticipated bold performance, but the Nigerian market delivered returns and growth levels far beyond initial expectations.

What began as a calculated expansion into an emerging market rapidly transformed into one of the company’s most profitable operations anywhere in the world. In only a few years, the margins, subscriber growth, and revenue explosion fundamentally altered MTN’s continental growth trajectory.

Today, MTN Nigeria generates trillions of naira in annual revenue and remains one of the most valuable companies on the Nigerian Exchange, underscoring the sheer commercial depth of the Nigerian market.

Likewise, French owned MultiChoice, now promoters of DStv, may have projected cautious subscriber growth and conservative margins when entering the Nigerian market. Instead, Nigeria became one of the company’s strongest commercial bases, powered by population scale, aspirational consumption, urban expansion, and the sheer dynamism of Nigerian demand.

That is the paradox called Nigeria.

Its challenges are visible, sometimes loud, sometimes exaggerated. But beneath them lies one of the deepest consumer markets in the world, a fiercely entrepreneurial population, expanding infrastructure opportunities, vast mineral deposits, a growing technology ecosystem, and unmatched demographic energy on the African continent.

This is the story President Tinubu now takes to Africa CEO Forum 2026.

And this is why Kigali matters.

The Africa CEO Forum is not merely another conference. It is a marketplace of capital, influence, partnerships, and continental strategy. Over 2,000 chief executives, investors, financiers, policymakers, sovereign wealth managers, industrialists, and multinational decision-makers will gather under one roof to discuss where Africa’s future growth will emerge from.

Nigeria intends to ensure that its name sits at the center of that conversation.

The administration understands that reforms are not enough if they are not properly communicated to capital. Investors do not merely invest in policies; they invest in confidence, clarity, direction, predictability, and leadership resolve.

This is why Nigeria’s current continental engagement strategy is deliberate.

Fuel subsidy reforms, exchange rate liberalization, tax modernization, infrastructure concessions, power sector restructuring, gas commercialization, digital economy expansion, and efforts at restoring macroeconomic credibility are now being woven into a broader continental narrative: that Nigeria is repositioning itself as Africa’s foremost large-scale investment frontier.

And despite the turbulence associated with reform transitions, global investors are watching carefully.

They understand something many critics often overlook: the greatest investment opportunities are often created during periods of structural transition. Nigeria, with its strategic geography, youthful population, expanding urban centers, natural resource base, and continental trade advantage under AfCFTA, sits at the center of that possibility.

Kigali therefore becomes more than a diplomatic stop. It is a launch pad. President Tinubu designed and holds the pitch deck and he must deliver the Nigerian pitch.

Kigali is a continental investment roadshow. A confidence- building exercise. A strategic engagement with African and global capital.

And in many ways, it represents the culmination of a broader continental economic outreach strategy President Tinubu has pursued since assuming office.

In August 2024, he was in Equatorial Guinea advancing bilateral oil and gas cooperation and deepening strategic energy commitments. In January 2025, he was in Tanzania for the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, engaging continental stakeholders on energy access, infrastructure, and Africa’s long-term development financing needs.

But Kigali is different.

In Kigali, Nigeria is not merely discussing energy partnerships or regional cooperation frameworks.

Nigeria is making its sovereign business case to the rest of Africa.

It is telling investors that the reforms are underway, the fundamentals are correcting, infrastructure gaps are creating massive investment opportunities, and the country is positioning itself for long-term competitiveness and profitability.

The message from President Tinubu’s engagement across the continent is therefore becoming unmistakably clear: Nigeria is no longer content with simply being Africa’s largest market by population. It intends to become Africa’s most compelling destination for investment, enterprise, industrial expansion, and scalable profitability.

And that argument is not being made theoretically. It is backed by history.

Fintech Unicorns are rising, telecoms companies entered Nigeria and built some of their largest operations here. Energy firms are scaling faster in Nigeria than in many mature markets. Consumer brands continue to find one of their largest African customer bases within Nigeria’s borders.

Agro allied enterprises, housing, logistics, mining, manufacturing, digital services, and infrastructure still contain enormous untapped commercial opportunities.

The reality is that few places in the world still combine massive population scale, rising consumer demand, resource abundance, entrepreneurial energy, and expansion potential the way Nigeria does.

That is the real significance of Kigali.

And in rooms filled with CEOs, sovereign funds, institutional investors, development finance leaders, and multinational executives, Nigeria’s pitch will be unmistakable: the promise is unmatchable, the risks are mitigable, the reforms are difficult, but the upside remains extraordinary. And the Reformer in chief is still at work.

Sunday Dare is the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications to President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria

The chairman of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), FCT Chapter, Desmond Utomwen, has outlined an ambitious vision to transform the Federal Capital Territory into a vibrant hub for Nollywood. In this interview, he speaks on his emergence as chairman, the critical role of producers in the film industry, and plans to reposition Abuja as a thriving centre for film production through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Can you tell us how you emerged as Chairman of AMP, FCT Chapter?

I have been an active member of the Association of Movie Producers for years. Last year, I was encouraged by colleagues to contest for the chairmanship position after serving the guild in different capacities, including as Publicity Secretary for about six years. Initially, I was reluctant because of my existing commitments, but after careful consideration, and out of my passion for the guild, Nollywood, and the FCT, I decided to step forward.I received overwhelming support from my colleagues, and that is how I emerged as chairman. Now, the responsibility is on me to deliver and justify the confidence reposed in me.

What is your vision for the Association and Nollywood in Abuja?

The producer is the backbone of the film industry. Without producers, there is no Nollywood. Producers conceptualise projects, secure funding, and employ every other practitioner — actors, directors, writers, and crew. If producers are not financially sustainable, the entire industry suffers. They source markets and ensure proper distribution of films.That is why my primary focus is to reposition producers and ensure they thrive. Beyond that, we want to change the narrative of Abuja being seen as a “sleepy town” for filmmaking. Abuja has enormous potential, unique locations, serene environments, and access to policymakers, which many other cities cannot offer. Our goal is to build a strong ecosystem where producers create more films, actors gain visibility, and the overall quality of productions improves. This will elevate Abuja’s status as a major Nollywood hub.

Abuja is often compared to Lagos as a film hub. How do you plan to compete?

Lagos is currently the biggest hub, no doubt. But Abuja has distinct advantages. For us, there is always room for improvement in all aspects. We will seek collaboration and aim for a possible paradigm shift towards industry dominance, but we will not engage in unhealthy rivalry. Abuja offers diverse filming locations, better infrastructure, and less noise disruption during shoots. You can shoot high-end urban scenes, as well as epic or traditional films, all within Abuja. The environment supports creativity in ways many places cannot. Our task is to harness these advantages and create an enabling environment where investors and filmmakers see Abuja as a viable and attractive alternative.

There have been concerns about filmmakers coming into Abuja to shoot without engaging local guilds. What is your position on this?

Yes, this has been a recurring issue. Many producers come into Abuja, complete their projects, and leave without engaging local stakeholders. While the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of movement and association, there is also a need for mutual respect and continuous collaboration within the industry. We are not approaching this from a confrontational angle. Instead, we are adopting a collaborative strategy. We want to build a system where visiting filmmakers can benefit from local support structures while also contributing to the growth of the Abuja film ecosystem.We are engaging stakeholders and working towards a framework that encourages partnership rather than conflict. The goal is a win-win situation for everyone.

How long is your tenure and what are your key plans?

My tenure is for two years initially, with the possibility of renewal. Our immediate focus includes: Rebranding the guild to improve visibility and relevance in the FCT, building strategic partnerships with key institutions and stakeholders, strengthening collaboration within and outside the industry and creating sustainable structures that support film production in AbujaWe have already held meetings with major stakeholders, including the Nigerian Film Corporation, the Nigerian Television Authority, and the National Orientation Agency, among others.

Why are these collaborations important?

Film is a powerful communication tool. It combines audio and visual elements to inform, educate, and influence people more effectively than many other mediums. That is why collaboration with government agencies, broadcasters, and regulators is critical. These partnerships will help us expand opportunities, improve distribution, and strengthen the industry. The responses we have received so far have been very encouraging, and we will continue engaging stakeholders to build a sustainable future for Nollywood in the FCT.

What should stakeholders expect in the coming months?

We are working towards establishing a structured and collaborative ecosystem that benefits everyone — producers, actors, investors, and institutions. Very soon, the results of our engagements and initiatives will begin to show. Our ultimate goal is to make the FCT a thriving hub where creativity flourishes and quality productions are consistently delivered.

By Akin Kuponiyi

A Federal high court sitting in Lagos on Tuesday sentenced a housewife, Rukayat Sikiru to 28-month imprisonment for dealing in illicit drug.

Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA prosecuting counsels B.S. Abdullahi, M.I.Erondu and P.M. Ekuri had in a six-count charge filed before the court said 33-year-old Rukayat on or about the 12th day of March, 2026, at Black Gate Badore Area, Ajah was arrested with 150 grams of Cannabis Sativa, 3 grams of Methamphetamine,150 grams of Molly,3 grams of cocaine,15 grams of Rophynol and 15 grams of Tramadol.

The said the offence was contrary to and punishable under Section 11(c) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, Cap N30 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

When the six- count charge were read to her, she pleaded guilty.

The prosecutor then reviewed the facts of the case and tendered six exhibits.

However, Rukayat’s lawyer in her plea for leniency, urged the court to tamper justice with mercy.

She noted that the convict is a single mother of four who lives in uncompleted building and she has shown signs of remorse.

In his ruling, the presiding judge, Justice Akintayo Aluko said that he has put into consideration the plea of leniency by the counsel to the convict.

Consequently, he sentenced the convict to a total of 28 months imprisonment on the six-count or an option of fine of N800,000.

The Judge also ordered that the drugs seized from the convict should be returned to the NDLEA for destruction

By Christian Ogbonna

Mr Nwankpu James, a self-acclaimed prophet who was seen in a viral video maltreating a child accused of witchcraft in an abusive and inhuman manner has been arrested by operatives of Ebonyi Police Command.

The abused child has been rescued and admitted to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FETHA) for immediate medical attention, Ebonyi Commissioner of Police, Mrs Hope Okafor disclosed in a statement issued in Abakaliki on Tuesday.

The statement was signed by SP Joshua Ukandu, the spokesperson of Ebonyi police command.

She said that the incident occurred in Isohumini Agbaja community, Izzi Local Government Area of the state.

Okafor said that the arrest followed the prophet actions in a viral video, where the child was being maltreated in an abusive and inhuman manner.

“The operatives of the Command were immediately directed to ensure the arrest of the suspect and the rescue of the child.

“Acting on the directive, operatives traced the suspect and the child’s parents to Isohumini Agbaja Community in Izzi Local Government Area, where the suspect was arrested and the child successfully rescued.

“The suspect is currently in our custody as investigations into the incident continue,”.

Okafor reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly children, and strongly warned against all forms of child abuse and inhumane acts.

A resident in the area, Mr Mather Nwachukwu, alleged that the child had been suffering from frequent illness, prompting her parents to seek spiritual intervention from the prophet.

The prophet was, however, alleged to have accused the child of witchcraft and subjected her to humiliating practices in the guise of deliverance. (NAN)