Category: PM News

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.

Joseph Effiok Hogan has positioned HoganHost as a growing force in Africa’s technology ecosystem by building solutions that address longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s web hosting space.

Hogan founded the company with a clear objective to fix what he described as an unreliable and expensive hosting system that hindered the growth of many Nigerian startups and small businesses. Rather than work around the limitations, he took direct steps to create a more dependable alternative.

Working alongside his sister and co-founder, Atim Hogan, he built HoganHost from the ground up, committing to a hands-on approach in the company’s early stages. Hogan actively oversaw technical operations and customer service, a move that helped shape the firm’s operational standards and customer-focused culture.

He soon began to see results as startups, developers, and businesses increasingly turned to HoganHost for reliable hosting services.

Leveraging this growing trust, Hogan expanded the company’s offerings beyond basic hosting to include domain registration, SSL certification, and cloud-based solutions tailored to modern digital demands.

Hogan strengthened the company’s position further by leading the acquisition of ZuumHost, a strategic move that enhanced infrastructure capacity and broadened market reach. The acquisition also marked a shift in direction, as Hogan began steering the company beyond Nigeria’s borders.

He has since driven HoganHost’s expansion into other African markets. According to Tech Orijin, the company has secured domain accreditation in South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda, positioning it among emerging African tech firms building cross-border digital infrastructure. Hogan has also extended the company’s cloud hosting services across the continent, improving access to scalable digital tools for businesses in multiple regions.

Throughout this expansion, Hogan has maintained a consistent leadership philosophy centred on accessibility, reliability, and user-focused innovation. His approach combines technical expertise with a strong understanding of customer needs, which continues to shape the company’s growth strategy.

Industry stakeholders have begun to take notice of HoganHost’s progress. The company’s nomination for Web Hosting Company of the Year at the Eko Heritage Awards 2026 underscores its increasing relevance in a competitive sector.

Hogan has distinguished the company’s growth strategy through steady execution rather than aggressive publicity. By focusing on consistent service delivery and long-term vision, he has built a brand that continues to gain traction across Africa.

By Taiye Olayemi

Nigeria’s equities market delivered a stunning performance in April, with investors raking in a massive 26.2 trillion as bullish sentiment swept across the bourse on the back of rising crude oil prices and robust corporate earnings.

Data released in Lagos showed that market capitalisation surged from 129.809 trillion at the start of the month to 155.994 trillion, representing a sharp 20.17 per cent increase. Similarly, the All-Share Index climbed by 40,990.03 points, or 20.36 per cent, to close at 242,277.81, underlining the strength of the rally.

Trading activities reflected sustained investor confidence, with 18 out of 20 sessions closing on a positive note during the period.

Vice President of Highcap Securities Ltd., David Adonri, described April as an exceptional month, noting that equities extended their rally with remarkable momentum, largely driven by renewed strength in banking stocks and the tail end of the earnings season.

He expressed optimism that the bullish run could spill into May, citing improving crude oil prices and relative stability in the foreign exchange market.

However, he warned that insecurity and pre-election uncertainties remain potential downside risks.

A stockbroker, Tajudeen Olayinka, said the longer trading window, despite initial adjustment challenges, would enhance access for international investors, particularly those operating across different time zones.

In the same vein, National Coordinator of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Moses Igbrude, attributed the rally to impressive corporate earnings and liquidity inflows linked to ongoing bank recapitalisation efforts.

He added that funds raised through recapitalisation are expected to find their way into equities, further sustaining market growth.

During the month, investors traded a total of 15.596 billion shares valued at 848.972 billion across 1,113,650 deals, reflecting heightened market activity.

Sectoral performance showed that oil and gas stocks led the rally, buoyed by rising global crude oil prices, while banking stocks gained traction on the back of dividend declarations. Industrial goods also contributed to the upward momentum.

Dangote Cement rose by 160 to close at 970, and MTN Nigeria gained 155 to settle at 915. Lafarge Africa also recorded a strong performance, climbing 130 to 350.

Banking stocks remained upbeat, with Zenith Bank and Guaranty Trust Holding Company closing higher at 130.50 and 135, respectively.

On the flip side, losses were recorded in a few counters, with Okomu Oil Palm Company declining by 15 to 1,750, while Conoil dropped by 10.40 to 194.

Similarly, Oando and Eterna shed 3.60 and 2.10, respectively.

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The factional Board of Trustees of Peoples Democratic Party led by Sen. Adolphus Wabara has summoned an emergency National Executive Committee meeting for today, Monday to prevent what it described as a leadership vacuum within the party.

Wabara spoke on Sunday in Abuja during the 84th meeting of his faction of the board.

According to him, the board acted under provisions of the party constitution, as amended in 2017.

Wabara said the board secured the required two-thirds support of NEC members before convening the meeting.

He added that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had already been formally notified.

“I am pleased to inform Nigerians that we have secured the required consent.

“INEC has been duly notified of the 103rd NEC meeting scheduled for Monday, May 4,” Wabara said.

He urged members to approach the meeting with unity, reconciliation, and commitment to rebuilding the party.

“We must act as the conscience of our party and provide direction,” he said.

Wabara said the board assumed administrative leadership after a Supreme Court judgment delivered on Thursday.

He said the intervention prevented a constitutional crisis and immediate leadership uncertainty within the party.

According to him, the apex court nullified the 2025 national convention that produced the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee.

He added that the court also upheld suspensions linked to organisers of the March convention in Abuja.

Wabara insisted that Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and Umar Bature remained suspended.

He said their suspensions, imposed on Nov. 1, 2025, were affirmed by the Supreme Court.

“Despite our travails, our party remains strong and can never die. The PDP will never surrender to renegades or political brigands,” Wabara declared.

Meanwhile, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, dismissed claims of a leadership vacuum.

Mohammed said Abdulrahman Mohammed remained the party’s legitimate national chairman.

He argued that the Supreme Court ruling addressed only the legality of the Ibadan convention.

He said the judgment did not affect the current National Working Committee or party administration.

“There has never been any vacuum or absence of leadership in the PDP,” Mohammed said.

He maintained that the party structure remained lawful and fully operational.

Mohammed also argued that the party constitution gives no authority to the BoT to assume NWC powers.

He further questioned Wabara’s authority, saying his tenure as BoT chairman had already expired.

“The only legitimate BoT leadership is that headed by Mao Ohuabunwa,” Mohammed stated. (NAN)

For many Nigerian publishers, the model that once sustained journalism is no longer working. Advertising, long the backbone of print, radio, and television, has been declining. At the same time, the wider entertainment and digital media market is growing and is projected to reach $4.9 billion by 2026.

This creates a clear gap. The old revenue streams are shrinking, but new ones are emerging–driven largely by digital platforms and changing audience behaviour.

Today, revenue is no longer just about traditional ads. It includes earnings from platforms like Google through ad networks, creator payouts on X (formerly Twitter), and content monetisation on YouTube and Spotify. These channels reward reach, engagement, and consistency, but they also require a different way of thinking about content.

For publishers, this means shifting from a single-format approach to a multi-platform strategy–taking one piece of content and adapting it across video, audio, and text formats to reach audiences wherever they are.

This shift was the focus of The Monetised Content Masterclass, hosted by FCMB in partnership with BHM. The session brought together publishers across the ecosystem, including reporters, editors, bloggers, and content creators, to examine how to move beyond traditional revenue models.

One message came through clearly: financial sustainability now sits at the heart of editorial independence.

Discussions focused on how publishers can create real value, not just traffic or impressions, but content that travels well across platforms and can be monetised in different ways. This includes building direct audience relationships, forming the right brand partnerships, and using data to guide both content and commercial decisions.

Participants explored practical options such as paid memberships and subscriptions, branded content collaborations, and platform-based earnings. The emphasis was on execution, how to take what already exists and make it work harder across multiple channels.

Speaking at the session, Divisional Head, Corporate Affairs, FCMB Group, Diran Olojo, pointed to the need for a shift in mindset: “We are at a point where publishers must move from content production to platform thinking, building systems that can sustain value over time.”

For BHM’s CEO, Ayeni Adekunle, the issue is urgency: “The model has changed. The question now is whether the industry will adapt quickly enough to secure its future.”

Moderated by Fatu Ogwuche, the masterclass featured Fisayo Soyombo, Chris Ihidero, Jennifer Mairo, and Peter Oluka. Speakers shared practical insights, from repurposing content across formats to building audience loyalty and unlocking new revenue streams.

The takeaway was simple. Publishers can no longer rely on a single source of income. Growth will come from combining platform earnings, partnerships, and direct audience support, while making content work across multiple formats and channels.

For FCMB, the initiative reflects a clear commitment to supporting the growth and long-term sustainability of the media sector, given its role in informing the public, shaping opinion, and supporting national development.

Antonia Agbede-Ally, daughter of the late Brigadier Godwin Ally, has officially entered the race for the House of Representatives seat representing Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra Federal Constituency in Cross River State after picking the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form.

Her entry signals a major development in the constituency’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders already anticipating a keenly contested race.

Agbede-Ally, a social entrepreneur, philanthropist and public official, has built a strong profile through community-focused initiatives, particularly in healthcare, education and youth empowerment. Her decision to contest reflects a broader shift, as professionals and development advocates increasingly seek elective positions to expand their impact through policymaking.

The management team noted that her campaign will run on a platform centred on inclusive development, improved healthcare delivery and sustainable empowerment programmes targeting women and young people across the constituency.

Addressing the public on her ambition, Agbede-Ally said her goal is to bridge the gap between governance and the grassroots.

“My father served this country with his life, and I have spent the last decade serving our people through philanthropy,” she said.

“The time has come to take that service to the floor of the House of Representatives to ensure that the voices of the people of Obanliku, Obudu, and Bekwarra are not just heard, but acted upon.”

She highlighted her experience in the development sector, noting that her work has consistently focused on improving the lives of vulnerable populations.

According to her, beyond my political ambition, I have a distinguished career in the social impact space, as I have previously served as the founding Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the HOW Foundation, where I led several interventions targeted at vulnerable groups.

In 2025, she expanded her grassroots engagement with the launch of the Agbede Foundation in Obudu, an initiative focused on vocational training, healthcare services and educational support for underserved communities.

Political observers believe her background, combining a legacy of public service and hands-on development work, could influence voter decisions as constituents assess experience, capacity and vision in choosing their next representative.

Former Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade, has announced his withdrawal from the race for the Cross River North senatorial seat, stating that the decision was made in compliance with a “request” from President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement released on Monday, Ayade expressed his disappointment, revealing that despite feeling “ill-treated,” he chose to honor the request from the president. He stated that he had been invited to Abuja for a national consultation with the presidency, where he was asked to shelve his senatorial ambition.

“Recall I was invited to return to Abuja for a high-level national consultation with the presidency. From the sequence of events that followed my return, Mr. President wants me to withhold my Senate ambition. I yield to his request even as I pour tears of ill treatment and agony,” Ayade wrote.

Ayade suggested that President Tinubu may not be fully aware of the political dynamics in Cross River, claiming that the individuals benefiting from his withdrawal were among those who had strongly opposed the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 elections.

He reminded the president of his crucial role in building the APC in the South-South region, noting that he was the first APC governor in the zone and delivered nearly 40,000 more votes than the PDP for Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.

“I trust that Mr. President may not be aware that the people who turned our churches against Ayade and all of us in APC over the Muslim-Muslim ticket and accused us of islamisation of Cross River State are the beneficiaries of his instruction,” Ayade said.

He also referenced the violence at collation centres during the presidential election, claiming that some of the beneficiaries of the president’s order were involved in such violence. “Mr. President may recall that I was the first APC Governor in the whole of South-South Nigeria that built the new APC that we enjoy today. I worked assiduously for the party and delivered almost 40,000 votes above PDP in the Presidential election, first in the history of our state,” he added.

Despite his grievances, Ayade pledged to continue supporting APC candidates and work with President Tinubu and the Cross River governor to ensure the party’s success in the state, provided the directive remains unchanged.

United struck early, with Matheus Cunha firing home from outside the box in the sixth minute before Benjamin Sesko doubled the advantage in the 14th minute following a goalmouth scramble.

With momentum swinging in Liverpool’s favour, United regained control late on when Kobbie Mainoo struck from the edge of the box in the 77th minute, drilling a low shot into the bottom corner to restore the lead.

Despite late pressure from Liverpool, including attempts from Federico Chiesa and Cody Gakpo, United held firm to secure all three points in front of a crowd of 74,027.

The closing moments saw Diogo Dalot miss a clear chance to extend United’s lead, but it proved inconsequential as the final whistle confirmed a hard-fought victory for the hosts.