Category: PM News

Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has stirred laughter online after playfully challenging her friend and colleague, Funke Akindele, to a celebrity boxing match, all in the spirit of “making some good money.”

In a now-viral Instagram video, Badmus jokingly threw down the gauntlet, making it clear that the recent wave of celebrity boxing winnings had caught her attention and perhaps, her business instincts, too.

Her humorous call-out comes on the heels of Nigerian streamer and comedian Carter Efe’s headline-grabbing victory over controversial singer Portable in a celebrity boxing bout held at Bamora Hall, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday.

Portable later confirmed the arrangement while explaining his loss, writing: “I had already been paid 40 million before the match; we were only fighting for the remaining 10 million.”

Clearly amused, and perhaps slightly inspired, Badmus wasted no time jumping into the conversation, humorously eyeing her own share of the boxing bonanza.

Calling out Funke Akindele in a playful tone, she said, “Funke Akindele, let’s get in the boxing ring. It’s about time. Soso, E-Money, let’s get to it. No time. Money has to be made.”

While fans have largely taken her challenge as a joke between close friends, many couldn’t help but imagine what a Badmus vs. Akindele bout would look like, with some already “booking front-row seats” in the comment section.

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Nigeria international Taiwo Awoniyi delivered a standout performance on Monday, scoring twice as Nottingham Forest secured an emphatic 3-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in a dramatic Premier League encounter.

Forest stunned the home side early, with Awoniyi opening the scoring in the second minute, rising highest to nod home a precise cross and give the visitors a dream start.

Chelsea struggled to recover from the early setback, and their woes deepened midway through the first half when Forest doubled their advantage from the penalty spot through Igor Jesus, following a VAR-reviewed decision.

Awoniyi returned to haunt the Blues again in the second half, showing sharp instincts and composure to slot home Forest’s third goal in the 52nd minute, effectively putting the game beyond reach.

Despite enjoying superior possession, Chelsea failed to convert their dominance into goals. Cole Palmer missed a crucial penalty in the first half, while several chances went begging as Forest’s defence held firm.

The hosts did manage a late consolation through Joao Pedro, whose acrobatic finish in stoppage time reduced the deficit, but it proved too little, too late.

The result marks a significant setback for Chelsea, who were outplayed by a clinical Forest side that capitalised on key moments.

For Awoniyi, the brace underscores his growing influence and importance to Nottingham Forest as they continue their push for a strong finish to the season.

By Richard Elesho

Excessive prayer without work has been identified as one of the clogs in the wheel of Nigeria’s development. Citizens have therefore been asked to stop the lazy habit of praying about challenges, God as given them the intellect and ability to resolve instead of tackling them frontally.

Those were the opening takeaways from the 41st inaugural lecture of the Federal University, Lokoja, FUL, recently delivered by Prof. Ebenezer Ejalonibu Lawal, a political scientist. He treated the topic ‘Paradox and problems of development: The pedestal and pragmatic of a political scientist.”

Ejalonibu noted that God endowed humans with great intellect in all aspects of life to enhance advancement. However, he regretted that “instead of making use of these, humans throw these things back to God to do for them and employ all sort of diversionary actions to justify this.

“Most of the underdeveloped countries, Nigeria inclusive, are often embroiled in activities that are not coterminous with the Principles of development, and they have normalized these practices.”

He recommended “a dire need for academic preoccupation with various approaches to combat the debacle as this is the only means of attracting the desired gains and honour.”

Ejalonibu carried out a general overview of development, the paradox, and the pragmatic. “The pedestal represents the normative heights of the aspirational frameworks, goals, and values that specify what development should be. Good governance, democratic consolidation, the rule of law, accountability, transparency, and inclusive growth are some of these. The activities that influence the execution and results of development programs, on the other hand, are the lived realities of political life that are represented by pragmatics”

He concluded that “the paradox of development is a situation that must be continuously managed. Development is characterised by a conflict between aspiration and execution, between ideals and reality. In the end, we must use the paradoxes of development as a chance for introspection, creativity, and change rather than merely bemoaning them. Because it offers the moral compass that directs our goals, the pedestal must not be abandoned. The pragmatics must not be disregarded because they establish the conditions necessary to achieve those.”

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Gbenga Ibileye described the lecture as the second one under his watch as head of the institution and commended the lecturer for his commitment to service and research.

“To our inaugural lecturer today, Professor Ebenezer Ejalonibu Lawal: it has been asserted that, political scientists are, by training, accustomed to analysing those who speak at length without quite saying anything I did not arrive at that characterisation alone. I was reliably informed — by another “political scientist.”

“Although George Orwell who, I dare say, understood political language better than most politicians, once wrote that political science exists to give ‘an appearance of solidity to pure wind.’ I leave it to our lecturer to tell us whether the diagnosis still holds.”

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

A frontline All Progressive Congress (APC) House of Representatives aspirant, Hon. Mohammed Shattima Kankare, has vowed to work for the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in the 2027 general elections.

This is just as the Fagge Local Government Youth Forum on Sunday, officially declared its support for Kankare.

Kankare is aspiring to represent Fagge Federal Constituency.

The youths described him as, ” the indispensable candidate for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.”

In a statement signed by the Coordinator of the Forum, Hussain Ibrahim Kota, the youths appealed to Governor Yusuf and the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, and other high-ranking party stakeholders to align with Kankare for the victory of APC in Kano.

The Forum emphasized that, “the party’s success in the upcoming elections hinges on fielding a candidate with deep grassroots connections and a proven commitment to public service.”

According to the Forum, “Hon. Kankare represents the most viable path to securing a decisive victory for the APC in the constituency.

“We are sending a clear message to the party leadership: if the APC wants to win the 2027 elections in Fagge, Hon. Mohammed Shattima Kankare must be the candidate,” the statement read. “He is the choice of the people, the bridge between the generations, and the leader who can deliver the results our constituency deserves.”

The Forum noted that, ” the endorsement reflects a growing consensus among Fagge’s youth that Hon. Kankare’s leadership is essential for advancing critical issues such as housing, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development.”

President The development was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday by Mrs Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

Olotu said the redeployment aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at enhancing efficiency, deepening inter-ministerial collaboration and ensuring effective implementation of government policies.

According to the statement, Mrs Bekearedebo Warrens has been posted to the Political and Economic Affairs Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, while Dr Kamil Shoretire has been deployed to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Also redeployed are Mrs Nkiruka Jones-Nebo, who will serve in the Career Management Office under the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, and Mr Sani Aminu, assigned to the Special Services Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, She emphasised that the redeployment is designed to optimise performance and drive sustainable development in line with the Federal Government’s priorities.

By Taiye Agbaje

Drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday as two suspects in an alleged coup plot admitted in video evidence that they were aware of plans to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.

The startling revelations emerged during proceedings before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, where prosecutors played recorded interrogation sessions in open court, sending shockwaves through the courtroom.

Among those featured in the videos were retired Navy Captain Erasmus Victor and Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, who both acknowledged having prior knowledge of the alleged plot, though they denied active involvement.

Victor admitted that he was informed of the plan by the alleged mastermind, Col. M. A. Ma’aji, who, according to him, was aggrieved over a stalled promotion and expressed intentions to “overthrow the system.”

He told investigators he advised against the move but failed to alert authorities due to their personal relationship, a decision he now regrets.

“I feel so bad that I find myself in this situation,” Victor said in the recording, pleading for clemency and describing his predicament as “being at the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Equally gripping was the testimony of Inspector Ibrahim, who disclosed that discussions initially centred on helping the officer secure promotion but later shifted to an alleged plan to topple the government.

He admitted receiving between 1.4 million and 1.5 million and conducting reconnaissance around the Presidential Villa, including photographing sensitive areas and identifying possible access routes.

Investigators also revealed that coded language such as “fertiliser” and “farming” was allegedly used to mask discussions on funding and operational plans.

Despite the admissions, both defendants insisted they were not part of any execution plan, attributing their actions to poor judgment and personal connections.

Earlier, retired Major-General Mohammed Gana also told investigators he knew the alleged mastermind but denied any knowledge of the coup plan, insisting he merely forwarded messages, including past coup speeches, without understanding their implications.

The defence team had challenged the admissibility of the video evidence, arguing that the statements were not made voluntarily.

However, Justice Abdulmalik overruled the objections and ordered the recordings to be played, noting that their admissibility could be further examined during a trial-within-trial.

The case has heightened concerns over internal security and the vulnerability of key national institutions, especially given the alleged reconnaissance activities around the seat of power.

Proceedings have been adjourned to May 5 for continuation of trial as the court prepares to further examine the weight of the evidence. (NAN)

Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a top governorship aspirant in Oyo State, has been honoured with the Special Recognition Award in Politics for Outstanding Contributions to Politics in Oyo State at the 5th City People Political Awards.

The colourful ceremony, which drew prominent political figures, stakeholders and dignitaries from across the country, was held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at ETAL Hall, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State.

Ajadi, who was represented at the event by members of his media team, described the recognition as a reflection of his unwavering commitment to service, consistency and people-centred leadership. He noted that the honour goes beyond personal achievement and underscores the importance of impactful leadership in society.

According to him, the award serves as a renewed call to duty and a motivation to continue advocating for quality leadership that will uplift the standard of living of the masses.

“This recognition is not just about one individual; it is a testament to the values of service, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the people,” he said. “This recognition will only inspire me to do more, serve better, and remain steadfast in his service to the people.”

Ajadi used the occasion to emphasise the need for purposeful and visionary leadership in Nigeria, stressing that only leaders with genuine concern for the people can drive meaningful development. He reiterated his belief in governance that prioritises the welfare of citizens, economic empowerment and sustainable growth.

He also pledged to continue deploying his personal resources and influence to support the people, improve livelihoods and contribute to building the Nigeria of collective aspiration.

The governorship hopeful further assured that his political ambition is rooted in a desire to create opportunities for youths, strengthen institutions and deliver dividends of democracy to the grassroots.

“I remain committed to purposeful leadership, youth empowerment, and building a better future for our nation,” he added, while expressing optimism about the prospects of Oyo State under credible leadership.

Ajadi expressed appreciation to the organisers of the award, City People Magazine, as well as individuals and groups who found him worthy of the recognition. He assured that the honour would spur him to greater service, especially as he continues his consultations ahead of the Oyo governorship race.

“I sincerely thank the management of City People and everyone who recommended me for this special award. I do not take this recognition for granted, and I promise to do even more for our people,” he said.

In their remarks, the organisers of the City People Political Awards commended Ajadi for accepting the honour and lauded his contributions to political development in Oyo State. They described him as a symbol of quality leadership and a growing force committed to progressive ideals.

The organisers further noted that Ajadi’s track record of engagement, empowerment initiatives and consistent advocacy for good governance distinguished him among his peers, making him deserving of the recognition.

They also urged him to sustain his commitment to service, noting that leaders with integrity and vision remain critical to Nigeria’s growth and democratic consolidation.

The City People Political Awards, now in its fifth edition, continues to recognise outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to governance, leadership and political development across Nigeria.

By Cecilia Ologunagba

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said that 85 per cent of crimes committed against journalists go uninvestigated and unpunished, describing the situation as an unacceptable level of impunity.

Guterres stated this in his message to mark World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3 to highlight the importance of press freedom and the safety of journalists globally.

He said press freedom remained a key pillar of democracy, noting that the media served as a public watchdog in society.

Guterres recalled that the 1991 Windhoek Declaration strongly emphasised media freedom, which led the United Nations to dedicate the day to defending and strengthening press freedom worldwide.

The UN chief warned that economic pressures, emerging technologies and deliberate information manipulation were placing press freedom under unprecedented strain.

“When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root.

“When public debate is distorted, social cohesion weakens.

“And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve.

“All freedom depends on press freedom. Without it, there can be no human rights, no sustainable development, and no peace,” he said.

Guterres also called for stronger protection of journalists and efforts to ensure a world where truth and those who reported it were safe.

He said journalists often became the first casualties in conflict, as they risked their lives to report events.

“People often say that in war, truth is the first casualty.

“But far too frequently, the first casualties are the journalists who risk everything to report that truth, not only in war, but wherever those in power fear scrutiny.

“Across the globe, media workers risk censorship, surveillance, legal harassment, and even death,” he said.

Guterres further noted a sharp rise in the number of journalists killed in recent years, often deliberately targeted in conflict zones.

(NAN)

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) will hold its 2026 admission policy meeting on Monday, May 11.

At the meeting, officials will decide the minimum cut-off marks for the 2026/2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), along with other important admission guidelines.

According to JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, the event will take place at the Body of Benchers Auditorium in Jabi, Abuja.

The Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, is expected to present key policies for the new admission session.

The meeting is held every year and brings together major stakeholders in the education sector. These include vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, registrars, and admission officers from different institutions.

Representatives from regulatory bodies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC), National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), and National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) will also attend.

Other agencies, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the National Youth Service Corps, are expected to send goodwill messages.

The event will also include the 6th National Tertiary Admissions Performance-Merit Awards, which recognises institutions that follow admission rules and maintain good standards.

United States forces have destroyed seven Iranian small boats in the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump announced on Monday, marking a fresh escalation in efforts to secure one of the world’s most critical maritime routes.

Trump said the strikes were carried out under “Project Freedom,” a U.S.-led initiative aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping through the strategic waterway, which has faced repeated disruptions amid heightened tensions with Iran.

In a brief statement, the president accused Iranian forces of harassing and attacking vessels from neutral countries, citing a recent incident involving a South Korean cargo ship.

“Perhaps it’s time for South Korea to come and join the mission,” Trump said, calling on international partners to support efforts to stabilise the Gulf’s shipping lanes.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which about 20 per cent of global oil supply is transported, has long been a geopolitical flashpoint.

Iranian fast-attack craft, often referred to as part of Tehran’s “mosquito fleet,” have been linked to swarming tactics, mine deployment and harassment of commercial vessels.

U.S. officials maintained that the latest action was defensive, stressing that operations are focused on protecting maritime commerce rather than provoking a broader conflict.

Iran has, however, pushed back against such claims, insisting it has the right to respond to what it describes as provocative U.S. naval activities in the region.

Further details are expected at a Pentagon briefing, where Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine are scheduled to address the media.

The development comes amid ongoing U.S. pressure on Tehran, including restrictions targeting Iranian maritime activity, as Washington seeks to contain tensions while maintaining a fragile regional balance.