Category: PM News

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.

Sanwo-Olu made the call on Monday at the opening of the second session of the 36th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), held at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

The governor, who was accompanied by his deputy, “Public office is a stewardship that will be examined both in time and in eternity,” he said, stressing that true leadership must be anchored on integrity and responsibility.

Speaking on the synod theme, The Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology) and the Doctrine of End-Time (Eschatology): Their Relevance and Our Response to Them Today,” Sanwo-Olu described it as timely, especially given the nation’s current socio-economic challenges.

He noted that rising cost of living, economic uncertainty and widespread anxiety among citizens make the message of hope and accountability more relevant.

According to him, the principles of salvation and accountability form the foundation for ethical leadership, transparent governance and responsible public service.

“Without that anchor, leadership becomes a private enterprise; with it, leadership becomes a sacred trust,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also outlined achievements of his administration under the THEMES Plus Agenda, covering transportation, healthcare, education, economic growth, security and governance, with emphasis on sustainability and social inclusion.

He commended President In his address, the Diocesan Bishop, Okupevi also urged Christians to play active roles in the 2027 general elections, calling on citizens to reject vote-selling, violence and divisive politics.

“As the Church, we must not be silent. We must pray, speak boldly and act justly,” the bishop said, emphasising the need for righteousness in nation-building.

The synod also featured the presentation of gifts to Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy and the Special Adviser on Christian Matters, Very Revd. Bukola Adeleke, in appreciation of their support for the Church.

By Emmanuel Antswen

Benue governor, Hyacinth Alia has dismissed report that President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, APC has ordered that state and federal lawmakers in the state should be given automatic ticket to contest for re-election in 2027.

Alia spoke after a meeting held to resolve prolonged internal crisis that has crippled the APC in Benue on Sunday.

The high-level reconciliation meeting in Makurdi brought together Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Gov. Hyacinth Alia, party leaders, lawmakers and other influential stakeholders across the state.

Federal appointees, lawmakers and stakeholder representatives attended the meeting.

Some reports had indicated that one of the grounds for reconciliation was granting of automatic tickets to state and federal lawmakers in the state for the 2027 election.

But Alia dismissed reports of any official directive on automatic tickets.

The governor said no formal approval had come from the leadership of the party despite earlier reports.

“The President and party leadership have not approved automatic tickets,” he said, explaining that earlier comments were only appeals for support.

However, Alia described the meeting as timely and necessary.

The governor said the gathering was designed to heal divisions and restore confidence.

“This meeting was deliberate and aimed at bringing everyone back together,” Alia said.

He said he apologised to members who felt excluded or offended. “I apologised on behalf of all members to those aggrieved,” he said.

Alia stressed that Benue’s interests must come above personal ambitions. “Benue is bigger than any individual, and unity must prevail,” he said.

The governor said reconciliation remained necessary for effective governance and development.

He added that leadership required sacrifice, understanding and collective responsibility.

Akume had earlier announced the resolutions reached at the meeting to stakeholders and the media.

Akume said stakeholders openly reviewed grievances, disagreements and political misunderstandings that had weakened the party.

According to him, members agreed to prioritise unity, dialogue and mutual respect moving forward.

“We reviewed our mistakes and agreed to rebuild an inclusive party,” Akume said.

He said party leaders accepted that divisions had slowed political progress and affected internal confidence.

Akume disclosed that members reached a consensus supporting Alia’s return as governorship candidate.

He said the governor acknowledged concerns raised by aggrieved members during discussions.

“The governor apologised, and that is an important step toward reconciliation,” he said.

Akume said he also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s message on party unity.

According to him, the President urged elected APC officials to work together. He said these included lawmakers at both state and national levels.

Akume expressed confidence that the meeting would strengthen party cohesion in Benue.

He added that unity would improve cooperation ahead of future political activities.

Most people trying to fix their hair loss have a drawer full of half-used bottles and a growing sense of frustration. Shampoos, oils, supplements — tried one, moved to the next. But the hair keeps thinning anyway. Holistic hair treatments promise something different: not just a fix for what you see, but an answer to why it’s happening. The question worth asking is whether they actually deliver on that promise over time.

What “Holistic” Actually Means in Hair Care

The word holistic gets used loosely, so it helps to be specific. A holistic approach to hair loss means treating the body as a connected system rather than addressing the scalp alone. It assumes that hair thinning is rarely just a hair problem — it’s usually a signal. Nutritional gaps, hormonal shifts, poor gut health, chronic stress, and disrupted sleep can all interfere with the hair growth cycle in measurable ways.

So instead of asking “which oil should I apply,” a holistic approach asks “what’s happening internally that’s slowing growth or speeding up shedding?” That shift in framing is what makes it meaningfully different from conventional cosmetic treatments.

Why Surface Treatments Alone Often Fall Short

Hair grows from follicles beneath the skin, and those follicles depend on blood supply, hormonal signals, and nutrients to function well. When you apply something topically — whether it’s a serum, oil, or minoxidil — you’re working at the surface level. That can help in certain cases, but it won’t correct a folate deficiency or rebalance elevated DHT levels, both of which can actively shrink follicles over time.

This is why many people see initial improvement with topical treatments and then plateau. The external application may support the hair that’s already growing, but it doesn’t address the internal conditions that led to shedding in the first place. Long-term results require something that works deeper.

The Role of Diet, Hormones, and Lifestyle

Three internal factors come up consistently in research on hair loss:

Nutritional deficiencies — Iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D are all tied to hair follicle health. Even a mild, subclinical deficiency can shift more follicles into the resting phase prematurely. Hormonal imbalance — In men, elevated DHT (a testosterone byproduct) causes follicle miniaturization over time. In women, conditions like PCOS or thyroid dysfunction frequently show up as diffuse thinning. Chronic stress — Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, is known to disrupt the hair growth cycle. A period of intense stress can trigger telogen effluvium, where a large number of follicles rest simultaneously and shed two to three months later. Addressing these factors doesn’t happen overnight. But it does create the conditions for lasting recovery — not just temporary improvement.

Do Holistic Approaches Actually Work Long-Term?

The honest answer is: yes, but only when they’re specific and consistent. A generic “eat healthy and reduce stress” plan won’t move the needle for someone dealing with androgenetic alopecia or thyroid-related hair loss. The holistic approach has to be built around an accurate diagnosis.

When it is, the results tend to be more durable. Follicles that were miniaturized but not dead can regrow when DHT levels are managed and circulation improves. Nutritional restoration can restart stalled growth cycles. Stress management, when practiced consistently, can stabilize shedding over several months.

This is where treatment systems that think beyond the scalp begin to show their value. Some structured approaches, like those offered by does Traya really work through their root-cause model, combine internal supplementation, dietary guidance, and topical support based on individual health assessments rather than one-size-fits-all protocols.

What to Realistically Expect

Holistic hair treatment is not a three-week fix. Most people start noticing reduced shedding between weeks six and twelve. Visible regrowth, if follicles are still active, typically takes four to six months of consistent treatment.

The markers of it working are gradual:

Shedding slows before new growth appears Hair texture often improves before density does Energy levels and sleep quality may improve alongside hair health if the root cause was systemic Final Thoughts

Holistic hair treatments can deliver long-term results — but the word “holistic” has to mean something beyond a collection of natural ingredients. It has to mean understanding what’s actually driving the hair loss in your specific case and then addressing those causes systematically. That takes patience and a willingness to look inward, not just at your scalp. But for most people dealing with persistent hair loss, it’s the approach most likely to create change that actually lasts.

In a significant step towards improving healthcare access and improving national health outcomes, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs) has commissioned a 100-bed Renewed Hope Specialist Hospital in Dumbin Rauga, Dutsen Abba Ward, Zaria, Kaduna State.

The commissioning marks yet another milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and advance the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), as well as other cross-cutting goals. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide accessible, quality, and dignified healthcare services to residents of Kaduna State and surrounding communities.

Speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, described the hospital as more than just a medical facility, but a strategic intervention aimed at addressing critical gaps in healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Orelope-Adefulire further stressed that the intervention goes beyond infrastructure, focusing on improving health outcomes across communities.

“Healthcare is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Every mother deserves a safe delivery. Every child deserves a healthy start to life. No matter how far-flung our communities may be, access to quality healthcare must not be distant from them,” she added.

According to a statement released by her Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, the hospital is equipped with modern medical infrastructure, including fully functional operating theatres, wards, delivery sets, and advanced diagnostic equipment, positioning it as a major boost to healthcare capacity in the area.

“The hospital is fitted with state-of-the-art equipment. These include, among others, operating theatres, recovery rooms, private and general wards, a scanning room, consultation rooms, and a laboratory. Others include an ultrasound machine, a vacuum extractor delivery set, and an emergency cart with full complements,” the statement quoted the SSAP-SDGs as saying.

The intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places strong emphasis on people-centred development and inclusive access to essential services.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen who facilitated the project, noted that the initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to translating policy into tangible impact, especially in underserved communities where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge.

“This facility represents a critical investment in the health and wellbeing of our people. It will go a long way in reducing the burden on existing healthcare institutions and ensuring that our constituents have access to quality and affordable medical services,” the Speaker said.

In his remarks, the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, CON, commended the Federal Government and OSSAP-SDGs for the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful.

“This hospital will greatly strengthen our healthcare system in Kaduna State. It complements our efforts to expand access to quality healthcare and improve the wellbeing of our citizens,” the governor said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the effective utilisation and sustainability of the facility for the benefit of the people.

At the commissioning, there was strong emphasis on the fundamental importance of healthcare as a basic human right. Speakers highlighted the need to ensure safe maternal care, improved child health, and equitable access to medical services across all communities.

The new hospital is expected to significantly ease pressure on existing health facilities in the state, improve service delivery, and contribute to better health indices in the region. With this development, Nigeria continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a resilient healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of its growing population.

As the country advances in the Decade of Action for the SDGs, the commissioning of the Renewed Hope Specialist Hospital in Zaria stands as a clear testament to what can be achieved through strategic leadership, collaboration, and sustained investment in critical sectors.

For many residents, the facility represents not just improved access to healthcare, but renewed confidence in a system that is increasingly working to serve all.

The singer took to his Instagram page (@portablebaeby) to issue the challenge, triggering a wave of reactions across social media, where fans and critics alike have been sharply divided over the proposed matchup.

DJ Dimple has in recent weeks shared several boxing training videos and sparring sessions online, earning praise for her speed, strength and aggressive approach. Her growing confidence has fuelled speculation that she could pose a serious challenge if the bout materialises.

However, concerns have also emerged over the nature of the contest, with critics questioning the appropriateness of a male artist facing a female opponent in a regulated fight. Others, however, view the potential clash as part of the growing trend of celebrity boxing in Nigeria, where entertainment often takes centre stage.

Media personality “If you are close to Portable, advise him not to fight DJ Dimples. She’s got hands,” he said.

Despite the mixed reactions, Portable has shown no sign of retreat. Known for his outspoken personality and relentless self-promotion, he appears determined to bounce back from his recent loss with another high-profile showdown.

As online reactions continue to pour in-ranging from support for DJ Dimple to scepticism over the matchup, the Nigerian social media space has already branded the proposed fight as the next major celebrity boxing spectacle.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reportedly chosen Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly as his preferred candidate for the Rivers State governorship.

George, who once served as Commissioner for Works in Rivers State, is expected to run under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

According to sources, Wike made this decision after a private meeting with key political figures in Port Harcourt. The meeting focused on the political situation in the state and plans for the upcoming elections.

Some former militant leaders, including Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, were also present. Their involvement shows how important the meeting was.

George is seen as a loyal supporter of Wike and an experienced politician in the state.

This move is believed to be part of Wike’s plan to maintain strong political influence in Rivers State, even though he now holds a federal position.

The development comes amid ongoing political tension in the state between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike.

The two have been at odds, leading to divisions in the state government, including disagreements within the State House of Assembly and local councils.

Since becoming governor, Fubara has gradually distanced himself from Wike, causing a power struggle over control of the state’s political structure.

Efforts by President Bola Tinubu to resolve the conflict have not fully succeeded, and tensions remain.

A source said Wike’s support for George is a strategic move to influence the future leadership of Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation of the endorsement.