Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast and hopeful as the country celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary.

In his goodwill message to the people of Delta Central, the Niger Delta and all Nigerians, Dafinone described the milestone as both a celebration of sovereignty and a moment of sober reflection on the nation’s struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit of unity.

Acknowledging the economic hardship faced by households and businesses, he urged citizens not to lose sight of the bigger picture, stressing that meaningful reforms often come with sacrifices but ultimately pave the way for stability and prosperity.

‘As we celebrate our independence, let us rekindle our hope and strengthen our resolve to build a Nigeria that works for all,’ Dafinone declared, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for the interests of Delta Central in the Senate and ensuring the voice of his people is heard.

He prayed for renewed love for the nation and a greater determination to see Nigeria succeed, concluding: ‘God bless Delta Central, God bless Delta State, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

According to him: ‘As we gather in unity to mark the 65th anniversary of our nation’s independence on October 1st, I bring you warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations. This milestone is not just a celebration of our sovereignty, but a solemn reflection on our collective journey – our struggles, our triumphs, and the enduring spirit that binds us as one people. From the industrious communities of Delta Central to every part of our great country, this is a moment to reaffirm our commitment to the Nigerian dream – one built on resilience, justice, and shared prosperity.

‘I am aware that we are navigating through challenging times. The impact of economic reforms, inflation, and evolving global dynamics has placed significant strain on households and businesses alike. However, we must not lose sight of the bigger picture. Let us not be disheartened by temporary hardship. Change, especially meaningful change, often comes with sacrifices.

‘As we celebrate our independence, let us rekindle our hope and strengthen our resolve to build a Nigeria that works for all.

‘I remain committed to advocating for the interests of Delta Central in the Senate and to ensuring that the voice of our people is heard and respected. May this Independence Day renew in us a deeper love for our nation and a greater determination to see her succeed.’

The first prosecution witness (PW1) in the trial of former Taraba State Governor Darius Ishaku, Ismail Lawal, has said he could not remember the total amount he collected on behalf the governor.

Lawal (PW1) was a Personal Assistant to the former governor. He was testifying at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, Abuja.

Ishaku and Bello Yero, a former Permanent Secretary in the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for financial fraud allegations.

They are standing trial before Justice Sylvanus Oriji on a 15-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, conspiracy and conversion of public funds to the tune of N27 billion.

The former governor and his co-defendant pleaded not guilty.

At the resumed sitting in the trial yesterday, Lawal told the court during a cross-examination by counsel to the former governor, Paul Ogbole (SAN), that he collected cash on behalf of the first defendant.

The witness stated that though he collected money, he could not remember the total amount and the dates he collected the money.

‘I collected the first defendant’s earned allowances and distributed them based on his instructions.

‘I don’t know the total amount I received on his behalf. I also don’t know the dates,’ Lawal told the court.

The witness also said he was paid allowances for working with the former governor.

He added that he was paid N20,000 allowance per day anytime he travelled with his principal.

Lawal said he was paid a N130,000 monthly salary and had a poultry farm at Kubwa, Abuja, with 6,000 birds while working with the former governor.

‘The birds were 6,000 then, but as of today, they are 2,000. The capacity has diminished.

‘As of then, the poultry’s value was about N5 million. It is being run by my father and me,’ he said.

When shown a notebook in which he made entries of the allowances he collected, earlier tendered as an exhibit by the prosecution, Lawal told the court that the entries were not countersigned by those he collected cash from.

The witness stated that the notebook was neither a government record nor banking record, adding that the recording he did in the notebook was between him and the former governor.

Answering other questions, Lawal said: ‘I was asked to go to Lagos by His Excellency (Ishaku). That was not the first time I had been to Lagos; I have friends and relatives there.

‘I stayed in hotels in Lagos. I paid bills for the time I stayed there at N20,000 per day, totalling N600,000 per month. I spent one year and seven months there.’

The witness said he did not tender any hotel receipts, adding that EFCC operatives who arrested him in his hotel room in Lagos took away some documents, including some of the receipts.

The PW1 told the court that he was taken to the Lagos office of the EFCC when he was arrested and was brought to Abuja from there on the same day.

He added that he made a statement to the anti-graft agency in Lagos.

After listening to the witness, Justice Oriji adjourned the case till October 20 for the continuation of the cross-examination of the PW1.

Afrobeats pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti didn’t just play music; he lived it. Fela is revered for creating the Afrobeat sound, drawing from diverse Afro-musical inspirations and genres. But, it wasn’t just about the beats – Fela’s lyrics, forged in Pidgin English, were often scathing critiques of corruption, oppression, and colonialism. He used his music as a weapon and his stage as a battleground.

Recently, Fela was inducted into the 2025 Grammy Hall of Fame for his classic 1976 album, Zombie. He is the first Nigerian artiste to receive the honour. The Recording Academy, organisers of the Grammy Awards, announced the inclusion in this year’s Hall of Fame selections.

The Zombie album merited the honour for the late Afrobeat icon and his family as part of the nominated works released for the past 25 years, not recent musical works.

It was released in Nigeria under Coconut Records in 1976 and in the UK by Creole Records in 1977. The classic album is now in the league of other notable musical works that earned the Grammy Hall of Fame induction. Other albums from Jay-Z, Michael Jackson, Santana, and Cat Stevens have since been included in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Fela’s presence and his legacy has been honoured continuously over the years through contemporary showcases and exhibitions from Lagos to London, Germany, Brazil, France, Egypt and other countries.

This time around, Fela Anikulapo Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion comes home. It will open in Lagos at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in October, bringing the acclaimed retrospective home in an expanded, community-driven format that merges art exhibition with performances, film, workshops, and children’s programming.

At the press conference held recently, the organisers disclosed that the exhibition which is free and open to the general public, will kick off on October 12th and ends on December 28th in Lagos.

It had in attendance: Laurent Favier, Consul General of the French Embassy; Emmanuelle Harang, Cultural Attaché of the French Embassy; The Kuti Family consisting Yeni Kuti, Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti, Made Kuti; Papa Omotayo, Creative Director, AWCA; Onoshiokhue Ako, AWCA Project Lead; Seun Alli, Curator, JCAA; Omoboye Odu, Ecobank representative.

Designed as an immersive journey through Fela’s life, music, and radical ideas, the exhibition layers archival objects, photography, soundscapes, and media installations that reconstruct spaces from Kalakuta to the Afrika Shrine-alongside an interactive global map of influence and furthers its programming to include a weekly ‘Legacy Programmes’ calendar (talks, live music, studio sessions, cinema, children activities)

This edition adds to the rich history of Fela exhibitions in Lagos, standing out for its unprecedented scale and ambition: it is the first to combine the curatorial depth of an internationally acclaimed European retrospective with the authenticity of a Lagos reimagining. More than an exhibition, it is a 12-week cultural programme designed to immerse audiences across generations and place Lagos at the centre of Afrobeats global story.

First staged at the Philharmonie de Paris in 2022, the exhibition was hailed as ‘a revolutionary tribute’ (Euronews), ‘an echo of Fela’s unrelenting voice against oppression’ (Radio France), and ‘a reminder that his Afrobeat remains as urgent as ever’ (Slate).

At the heart of Afrobeat Rebellion is a multi-room, archive-led experience that traces Fela’s musical and political trajectory through objects, photographs, film, and sound. Visitors move from early years to Lagos life, Kalakuta Republic, and the Afrika Shrine, with interactive spaces that connect his work to global movements

Speaking on why the exhibition will hold in Lagos, Seun Alli, Exhibition Curator, Founder JCAA said: ‘Too often, Fela is reduced to a handful of catchphrases and uninformed stories – Zombie, Water No Get Enemy, the Kalakuta fire, marrying 27 women, or even the unfounded claim that he performed on stage in his underwear.

‘Curating Afrobeat Rebellion in Lagos is a deliberate refusal of this flattening. It aims to reposition Fela not merely as a musician or rebel, but as a public intellectual whose music and philosophy are deeply intertwined with Africa’s social, political, and intellectual histories.

‘His work was never just style or spectacle; it was a catalyst of revolt and hope, the soundtrack for those living under oppression, corruption, and the daily failures of power.

‘Nearly three decades after his passing, it remains a profound mystery how Abami Eda’s philosophy continues to resonate so powerfully across all facets of our shared human experience.’

According to Laurent Favier, Consul-General of the French Embassy in Lagos, he said: ‘Supporting the Afrobeat Rebellion in Lagos reflects our belief that culture is a bridge. It is a logical and welcome follow-up to the successful exhibition in Paris.

‘This project is both a celebration of Franco- Nigerian collaboration and a cultural gift, honoring Fiela’s legacy – who was very appreciated in France while deepening the dialogue between our two nations.’

Favier said France was honoured to support a high-quality tribute to Fela.

‘France has always been a heartland for Fela Kuti, supporting not only his music but also his activism. In the 1980s, he struck a chord with the times and fascinated the French press, which was the first to talk about the ‘Fela phenomenon’

‘These ties continue with his talented family; Femi, Seun, Made, and others,’ Favier said.

He explained that the exhibition was originally conceived by the Philharmonie de Paris – Cité de la Musique in 2022 and curated by French and Nigerian experts. According to him, the Paris edition drew wide acclaim, attracting 60,000 visitors within a month.

‘It was a true exercise in collective and intercultural intelligence, which enriched this Lagos edition. With more archives, resources and the strong involvement of the Kuti family, the experience promises to be even more dynamic.’ he said.

For Kuti Family, they unanimously agreed that their father’s legacy has travelled the world, but Lagos was always its heartbeat.

‘Afrobeat Rebellion brings things unseen, his music, and everything Fela stood for to his people in Lagos. Not just to remember Fela, but to inspire a new generation to use art as resistance and freedom,’ the family said.

Fela’s son, Femi Kuti, appreciated the organisers for honouring his father.

‘We are glad that Fela is still recognised, appreciated, and honoured. As the years went by, people still understood what he stood for,’ he said.

According to the organisers, the exhibition highlights are as follows: ‘Opening Night – Sun, Oct 12: First viewing + performances featuring Ezra Collective and Seun Kuti; The Exhibition (Afrobeat Rebellion) – Archival rooms spanning Fela’s Early Years, Lagos Life, Kalakuta Republic, Afrika Shrine, Library and Jukebox, Life on Tour, Legacy, Mapping Fela.

‘Legacy Programmes – Weekly live music, The Talks panels, Kalakuta Cinema, Studio Sessions, Young Rebels Corner (6-15), workshops, and city-facing activations.’

Beyond the exhibition walls, Afrobeat Rebellion will unfold as a living festival of culture: ‘The Talks – a 10-topic series on Fela’s ideas and impact with leading voices from Yeni Kuti to Prof. Oyeronke Oyewumi, Femi Falana, Ade Bantu, Minna Salami, and Kadaria Ahmed, exploring themes such as The Unfiltered Fela, Afrobeat In The Making, Fela’s musical evolution, and much more.

‘Live Music – Opening night with Ezra Collective and Seun Kuti, to performances by Femi and Made Kuti, and collaborations with contemporary artists and industry players, and producers like Sodi Marciszewer, Chike, A, YKB, and Vaedar, the sound of Afrobeat will be celebrated and reinterpreted.

‘Kalakuta Cinema – A 6-week film series featuring classics like Music Is a Weapon, The Lost Okoroshi, Mami Wata, Timbuktu, and Finding Fela. Screenings will take place in relaxed communal spaces and traditional settings every other Sunday; Book reading with Karatu – book titles include: Kalakuta Republic (Chimurenga) + select speeches, Dis Fela Sef! By Benson Idonije, Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, and Arrest the Music by Tejumola Olaniyan –

‘Young Rebels’ Corner – An interactive creative space for children aged 6-15 with activities like the Rebel Scrapbook, Jam Station, and Anikulapo Design Workshop. Every child leaves with a Rebel Name and ID card, a symbolic passport into the world of protest and creativity.

The workshops and interactive programmes will feature: ‘Manifesto: The Weapon of the Future (a zine-making writing workshop); Òrò Abamì Spoken Word Competition; Dance of Resistance (movement workshops led by The Mud Art Company)

Together, these programmes make Afrobeat Rebellion not just an exhibition, but an immersive cultural season for Lagos and the world.

According to Onoshiokhue Ako, Project Lead, Culture Producer, AWCA, the exhibition seeks to create a cohesive experience that resonates across generations.

Ako appreciated the Kuti family for their invaluable support and contributions to the project.

‘For us, Afrobeat Rebellion is more than an exhibition. It is a living season of culture. We designed it to bridge generations: from the children creating in the Young Rebels’ Corner to the elders who remember Fela firsthand, and everyone in between.

‘Our programmes are grounded yet far-reaching, and Lagos deserves nothing less than a homecoming of this magnitude.

‘We thank the Philharmonie de Paris for their deep reverence for Fela’s music. They pioneered this significant cultural exhibition, which has now expanded into what we have here.

‘To Ecobank, our host and home for three months, we are grateful. You stand as a true African centre, a home and a symbol of the continent’s cultural and economic ambition,’ she said.

Fela wasn’t just a musician; he was a force of nature, a revolutionary, and a voice for the voiceless. No doubt, the impact of Fela who died on August 2, 1997 at the age of 58 would continue to reverberate globally.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched the Renewed Hope Free Distribution of Mother-Baby Kits, a programme designed to improve maternal and child health outcomes across the six area councils of the FCT.

At the official flag-off held on Thursday at Asokoro General Hospital, the Minister of State for the FCT said the initiative, alongside the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project, reflects a holistic vision of health under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

A total of 250 baby kits containing essential items for safe and hygienic delivery were distributed, along with 500 cooking gas cylinders to promote clean energy use. Each kit provides vital supplies to safeguard both mother and child during labour and neonatal care.

‘No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care,’ the minister stressed, describing the kits as a direct investment in maternal and child health.

The ‘Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project’ is aimed at replacing smoky fuels like firewood, charcoal, and kerosene with LPG cookers, reducing indoor air pollution and promoting healthier living conditions for families.

‘By tackling one of the silent but deadly health risks in our homes, we are protecting families, cutting deforestation, and advancing our clean energy transition,’ she noted.

She said the twin programmes build on recent FCT health reforms, from new oxygen plants and fistula centres to expanded insurance coverage, calling them ‘flagship models of innovation, equity, and public-private collaboration.’

The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, said the launch marked ‘a significant milestone in our collective journey towards improving maternal and child health in the Federal Capital Territory.’

She noted that the official launch of the Renewed Hope Free Distribution of Mother-Baby Kits was not just a ceremonial occasion, but ‘A clear demonstration of the FCT Administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of mothers and newborns across our communities.’

Explaining the rationale for the initiative, Fasawe said, ‘Every year, Nigeria continues to face unacceptably high rates of maternal and infant mortality. While we have made some progress, far too many women still lose their lives during childbirth, and too many newborns do not live to see their first birthday.

‘One major reason for these preventable deaths is the lack of access to clean, safe, and essential supplies during delivery. The Renewed Hope Mother-Baby Kit initiative is designed to bridge that gap.

‘By providing these kits free of charge, especially to the most vulnerable and underserved women in our rural and peri-urban communities, we are removing a significant barrier to safe motherhood.’

She explained that the programme was aligned with the Federal Government’s broader health reforms, saying, ‘This initiative is in line with the broader goals of the Federal Government’s health sector reforms, particularly under the Universal Health Coverage framework.

‘It also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3: ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.’ Today, we are all gathered to renew hope in accordance with this goal, ‘One Baby at a Time.’

She, however, urged the expectant mothers to be conscious of the health of the pregnancy they are carrying, saying, ‘This initiative is for you. We want you to know that your health matters and the life of your baby matters, and the government is here to support you every step of the way.

‘Let me encourage all pregnant women to attend antenatal clinics regularly, deliver in health facilities, and take full advantage of the services being provided.’

Fasawe, while appreciating partners, NGOs, health workers, community leaders, and frontline providers as the unsung heroes who bring the kits to life, urged both stakeholders and beneficiaries to remain steadfast in advancing better health outcomes for all.

‘As we officially launch the free distribution of Mother-Baby Kits today, let this serve as a renewed call to action. A call to strengthen our primary healthcare system, a call to prioritize maternal and child health, and a call to build a future where no woman dies while giving life. Together, we can make this vision a reality,’ she said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, described the initiative as ‘a promise made and a promise fulfilled by the Administration of President Bola Tinubu, to restore and renew hope, deliver efficient healthcare, and protect the environment for future generations.’

He said the programme was symbolic of Nigeria’s Independence celebration, noting, ‘As we celebrate Nigeria’s Independence, this initiative is symbolic; we celebrate our future through these babies, while putting smiles on the faces of their parents with baby essentials, clean energy, and healthcare coverage.

‘Over 250 Baby Kits containing newborn essentials and 500 cooking gas cylinders have been distributed here today, and this is just the beginning.

‘No mother and no family will be left behind as we move round the six Area Councils under the Project Breathe Clean Air Abuja campaign and the One Baby at a Time initiative.’

Adam also used the opportunity to sensitize families on safe cooking gas use. ‘Always keep your cylinder in a well-ventilated area. Turn off the regulator when not in use. Never place cylinders near naked flames or direct sunlight. Check regularly for leaks and never use a matchstick to test. Keep children away from gas cylinders at all times.

‘With these safety measures, we can all enjoy the benefits of clean cooking while protecting our families and our environment.’

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Wednesday embarked on a familiarisation tour of his official palace at Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, ahead of his planned relocation into the magnificent edifice.

The visit marked the first official assignment of the newly crowned 44th Olubadan, who ascended the throne last Friday in a historic coronation at Mapo Hall.

Before the tour, Oba Ladoja held a meeting with members of the Olubadan-in-Council, after which he was conducted around the palace by aides.

The inspection was aimed at assessing the state of the infrastructure and acquainting the monarch with the palace facilities.

A palace aide, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the monarch expressed satisfaction with the condition of the palace after touring its various departments.

Oba Ladoja is expected to move into the official palace once the coronation activities are concluded.

He will be the second Olubadan to reside in the palace, following his predecessor, the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who broke tradition by becoming the first to rule from there instead of a private residence.

As part of the ongoing coronation events, a special Jumat service will be held on Friday at Oja’ba Central Mosque, while the ceremonies will conclude with the Isese traditional rites on Saturday.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, and a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Regina Akume, have congratulated Nigerians and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, describing the occasion as a moment for reflection on the nation’s past struggles and present progress.

In his message to mark the October 1 celebrations, Umahi said Independence Day serves as a reminder of Nigeria’s founding fathers’ sacrifices and vision, while inspiring citizens to commit to building a more united and prosperous nation.

He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, noting that the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ had repositioned Nigeria on the development path.

‘Mr. President is changing the developmental trajectory of our nation through his Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to turn our challenges into opportunities and our diversities into prosperity,’ he stated.

According to him, the administration’s massive investments in infrastructure across the six geopolitical zones and socio-economic reforms were already stimulating sustainable economic growth.

In the works sector, Umahi said Tinubu had prioritized addressing the nation’s inherited road deficits, pointing to the four Renewed Hope legacy projects as key drivers of economic expansion. ‘Nigerians are witnesses to the progress so far made on road infrastructural development,’ he said.

The Minister urged Nigerians to uphold unity, peace, and patriotism as the nation charts a new course. ‘May the spirit of freedom and unity continue to inspire every Nigerian to strive for a brighter future,’ Umahi said, wishing citizens a blissful Independence Day celebration.

Similarly, the lawmaker representing Gboko/Tarka Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Regina Akume, commended President Tinubu for his economic reform agenda, describing it as a bold step towards repositioning Nigeria’s economy despite initial challenges.

In her Independence Day goodwill message to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, Akume highlighted the removal of fuel subsidy as one of the most significant policy decisions of the current administration.

She noted that the savings from the subsidy withdrawal were already being channelled into critical infrastructure projects across the country.

Akume, who chairs the House Committee on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), stressed that the reforms introduced under the Renewed Hope Agenda had rekindled optimism about Nigeria’s future as the nation marks six and a half decades of independence.

Expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership qualities, she described him as courageous, selfless, and charismatic.

She further emphasized her belief in a united and indivisible Nigeria under his stewardship.

The federal lawmaker enjoined citizens to rally behind the administration, not just in the present term but also beyond 2027, to ensure continuity of programmes that would drive sustainable growth and prosperity for the nation.

President Bola Tinubu has described Nigerian youths as the nation’s greatest asset, urging them to dream boldly, innovate, and dominate in diverse fields of endeavour.

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ýThe President made this charge on Wednesday during a televised address marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

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ý’I have a message for our young people. You are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country.’

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ý’You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector.’

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ýTinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through impactful policies and targeted funding initiatives like the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

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ý’Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high.’

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ý’We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits.’

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ý’Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions.’

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ý’As of September 10, the total loan disbursed was N99.5 billion, while the upkeep allowance stood at N44.7 billion.’

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ýHe also highlighted the success of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), which has disbursed N30 billion in affordable loans to over 153,000 Nigerians for essential needs like transport, solar power, and digital tools.

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ý’YouthCred, which I promised last June, is a reality, with tens of thousands of NYSC members now active beneficiaries of consumer credit for resettlement.’

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ýTinubu emphasised the Renewed Hope Agenda’s vision of a Nigeria where every youth-regardless of background-has a fair chance at success and a better future.

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ýHe spotlighted the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme driven by the Bank of Industry in partnership with key international development agencies like AFDB, French Development Agency, and the Islamic Development Bank.

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ýHe said initiative supports young entrepreneurs and creatives, fostering innovation and job creation across the tech and entertainment sectors.

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ýTinubu acknowledged that ongoing reforms have caused some short-term hardship but said they were necessary to avert a looming economic crisis.

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ý’The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government.’

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ý’However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option.’

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ý’Our macro-economic progress has proven that our sacrifices have not been in vain. Together, we are laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on quicksand.’

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ýHe called on all citizens to contribute actively towards building a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria.

Ogun state government has urged the All Stars Football Association Abeokuta to be true Ambassadors of the state and the southwest zone as they compete for honours at the 2025 National Veterans Football Tournament -Lagos 2025- which kick off on Independence Day.

Speaking through the state’s Commissioner For Sports Development Honourable Wasiu Isiaka , the Muda Lawal Stadium Asero-based All Stars were assured of the government’s support as they strive to bring home the coveted trophy as national champions.

Similarly, NFF executive member and chairman of the Ogun state Football Association, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, said the state FA is confident of the abilities and capabilities of the veterans to make the state proud in their maiden national appearance.

The 2025 National Veterans Tournament holding in Lagos between October 1st and 5th will see eight qualifiers from six zones across the country competing for the coveted trophy.

All Stars Football Association Abeokuta, the southwest zonal champions, are being joined by Ondo State and the hosts, Lagos, as the representatives of the south west.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria is ‘racing against time’ to address decades of underinvestment in power, roads, and infrastructure.

In his 65th Independence Anniversary broadcast on Wednesday, the President defended his administration’s tough reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of foreign exchange rates, insisting that the country has ‘turned the corner’ towards recovery.

Tinubu acknowledged the hardship Nigerians are facing but assured that his government is channelling resources into education, healthcare, security, and critical infrastructure to secure a prosperous, self-reliant future.

Super Falcons’ forward Gift Monday has been crowned as the Player of Matchday 22 of the United States Women’s League (USWL) following her sensational hat-trick for Washington Spirit.

The 23-year-old received the highest number of votes in a poll conducted on X (formerly Twitter) , securing 50 percent of the 881 votes cast. She comfortably outpolled Gotham FC’s Rose Lavelle (35 percent), Utah Royals’ Mia Justus (8 percent), and Kansas City’s Bia Zaneratto (7 percent).

It has been a week to remember for the Nigerian international. In addition to the Player of the Week accolade, she was also named in the USWL Team of Matchday 22, further underlining her growing influence in the league.

Monday’s treble not only powered Washington Spirit to victory but also boosted her tally for the season to eight goals and two assists in 19 matches. The former FC Robo Queens and Tenerife striker is now firmly in the race for the Golden Boot, sitting fourth on the charts.

She trails Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga, who leads with 14 goals, Gotham FC’s Esther Gonzalez (13 goals), and Chicago Stars’ Ludmila da Silva (10 goals).

Having only joined Washington Spirit at the start of the campaign, Monday has quickly established herself as one of the USWL’s most dangerous forwards. Her form will also be a huge boost for Nigeria as they prepare for upcoming international assignments.