Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The 2025 edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival will take place from December 18 to 22.

The chairman of the planning committee, Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi, disclosed this during a press conference held at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland.

He described the carnival as one of the flagship initiatives of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, under the monarch’s 25-year development agenda for Ogbomosoland.

According to Odebunmi, the carnival was created to promote Ogbomoso’s rich cultural heritage, foster unity among its people, and showcase the city’s uniqueness to the world.

He stated, ‘The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival is more than a cultural display; it is a vision-a platform to showcase our heritage, promote our identity, and restore the dignity of Ogbomosoland.’

He recalled that the inaugural edition in 2024 attracted over 10,000 visitors, including indigenes from the diaspora, corporate sponsors, and tourists, noting that the event has become a model for cultural celebrations in Oyo State.

‘Last year’s success inspired several communities across Oyo State. It also led to the establishment of a campus of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS) and its inclusion in both the state and federal cultural calendars,’ Odebunmi added.

He expressed hope that the 2025 edition would surpass the previous one in terms of colour, creativity, and impact, mentioning that new activities and innovations have been introduced to enhance participants’ experiences.

This year’s pre-carnival activities will be largely youth-focused, designed not only to showcase talent but also to elevate outstanding individuals on national and global stages.

Mr. Banji Ojo, the chairman of the pre-carnival committee, stated that areas not yet included in the current lineup would be addressed in future editions and encouraged young people to seize the opportunity to showcase their gifts through talent hunts and other activities.

He mentioned that, in addition to cash and material rewards, those who excelled would be promoted to national and global levels.

Mr. Muyiwa Oke, the secretary of the committee, reported that over 50 clubs and associations have registered to participate, with registration still open for other interested groups.

He assured that the carnival would reflect the unity and vibrancy that characterize Ogbomosoland.

The 2025 carnival will include Pre-Carnival, Main Carnival, and Post-Carnival events.

Key highlights will feature talent Hunt showcasing music, comedy, and traditional performances; Omidan Ogbomoso Beauty Pageant, crowning the cultural ambassador of Ogbomosoland; Arts and Crafts Exhibition (December 18-22); Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament, Football Competition, Tennis Tournament, Ayo Olopon and Draught Competitions, and a Marathon Race.

The Main Carnival will officially launch on Thursday, December 18, at the Soun Ogunlola Hall, featuring cultural displays, music, and addresses by dignitaries.

Subsequent days will include chieftaincy conferments, Jumaat prayers, the Odun Oole Festival, golf tournament, award night, and musical entertainment.

The grand finale, scheduled for Monday, December 22, will feature an official closing ceremony performed by the Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, alongside cultural displays from the five local governments in Ogbomosoland.

Hon. Odebunmi assured that comprehensive security measures have been implemented, with both serving and retired experts managing surveillance and crowd control.

He also mentioned that hotels and restaurants across the city have been well-prepared to ensure comfort and safety for visitors.

Prince Dotun Oyelade, the chairman of the media and publicity sub-committee, emphasised that the carnival was ‘programmed for success right from inception’ and called on journalists to project its vision of unity, culture, and economic revival.

In conclusion, Odebunmi urged all sons and daughters of Ogbomosoland to support this initiative.

‘As Helen Keller said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’ Together, under the leadership of His Imperial Majesty, we are rewriting our story with courage and conviction,’ he stated.

The Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, inaugurated in 2024 as part of the Soun’s developmental vision, has quickly become one of the most anticipated cultural festivals in Oyo State, attracting both local and international attention.

The House of Representatives has directed its relevant committees to investigate allegations of fragrant violations of the NOGICD Act 2010, PIA 2021, and Taxes and Levies Act by all Oil and Gas Companies operating in Imo State and the status of implementation of the Host Community Development Trusts in Imo State.

In a resolution following a motion on notice, the House asked Oil and Gas Companies operating in the state to urgently comply with provisions of Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content (NOGICD) Act 2010 regarding indigenous employment, contracts awards, and establishment of operational offices.

The House is also insisting on the implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust requirements under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and grant unfettered access to officials of the Imo State Internal Revenue Service for the performance of their lawful duties, while also engaging in genuine dialogue with Host the community leaders to address grievance and ensure peaceful coexistence.

Leading debate on the motion, Okafor said the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, 2010 was enacted to promote the utilization of Nigerian human and material resources, and the participation of Nigerian companies in the oil and gas industry.

He said the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021 provides a robust legal and regulatory framework for the Nigerian petroleum industry, including specific provisions for host community development, environmental management, and equitable benefit sharing.

He said the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, authorizes State Governments to collect certain taxes and levies from businesses operating within their territories, which is crucial for funding state infrastructure and social services.

Okafor said several International and Indigenous Oil Companies (IOCs) operating oil and gas fields within the oil-producing communities of Imo State, notably in Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, and other LGAs as hosts, namely.

He listed the companies as Seplat Energy Plc: – OML 53,Niger Delta Petroleum Resources (NDPR): – OML 54, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO), WalterSmith Petroman Oil Limited: – OML 16,Associate Oil and Gas Limited/Dansaki Petroleum Limited (A Consortium): Umuseti/Igwe marginal field, Chorus Energy Limited (Formerly Shell Portfolio), TotalEnergies / NNPC Joint Venture and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited

He informed the House of what he described as persistent outcry and allegations from host communities and state Government regarding the failure to establish functional operational offices within their areas of operation in Imo State as mandated by Section 3(j) of the NOGICD Act, 2010, thereby denying the state, valuable economic activity and employment.

He said there has systematic failure of these companies to prioritize the employment of qualified indigenes of Imo State, in direct violation of Sections 11, 28, and 35 of the NOGICD Act, 2010 and refusal to award contracts to competent Nigerian companies, especially those from the host communities, for goods and services.

Okafor also spoke of obstruction of lawful efforts by the Imo State Government and Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS) to access their premises for assessment and collection of legally approved state taxes and levies and non-compliance with the Host Communities Development Trust provisions under Chapter 3 of the PIA, 2021, leading to a lack of tangible benefits and development in these communities.

He said these acts of non-compliance have led to immense frustration, widespread agitations, and a palpable threat of social unrest within the host communities.

He said further that the continued neglect and infringement of these laws, if not urgently addressed, may lead to violent protests that could threaten national security, destruction of critical oil and gas infrastructure, disrupting production and harming the national economy and a breakdown of law and order in the oil-producing regions of Imo State.

Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ile-Ife, has installed a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Afolashade Shona-Aluko, as Yeye Bobajiro of Oodua.

The event, held at his palace, was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.

Conferring the chieftaincy title on Shona-Aluko, the monarch lauded her for impacting on Nigerians through entrepreneurship, saying her efforts towards alleviating the sufferings of the masses were numerous.

Ooni said: ‘Shona-Aluko’s impact towards uplifting entrepreneurs impressed me a lot. So, I decided to reward her kindness with this chieftaincy title.’

The new Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, who could not hide her joy, said she could not comprehend how it happened to have being honoured by a foremost monarch in Yorubaland and Arole Oduduwa, Oba Ogunwusi.

She said: ‘To God be the glory for counting me worthy to be honoured with the title of Yeye Bobajiro Oodua by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife. The event was witnessed by many prominent traditional rulers and dignitaries from far and near.’

The Offa, Kwara State-born entrepreneur and philanthropist said her new title would spur her to do more for the development of mankind, promotion of Yoruba race and cultural institutions.

Some of the subjects of Ooni, who also spoke at the event, urged Shona-Aluko to collaborate with Ooni towards the progress and development of Ile-Ife and the entire Yorubaland.

They said: ‘Ile-Ife is the source of mankind. Ooni don’t just confer chieftaincy title on anyone, but those who deserve it and have contributed well to the development of Ile-Ife and Yorubaland as a whole.

Let’s see your impact in Ile-Ife and Yorubaland.’

Ruben Amorim said a first victory at Anfield since 2016 was just reward for Manchester United’s long suffering fans after Harry Maguire’s late winner inflicted a fourth consecutive defeat on Liverpool.

The 2-1 win ensured that United earned theirs first back-to-back victories in the Premier League since Amorim took charge nearly a year ago.

But the Portuguese coach said that how his players respond next weekend when Brighton visit Old Trafford will tell him more about what United can aspire to this season.

‘That was the biggest win in my time at Manchester United. It means a lot today but tomorrow it won’t mean a lot,’ said Amorim.

United crashed out of the League Cup to fourth-tier Grimsby in August and Amorim appeared on the brink of losing his job after defeat to Brentford last month.

However, wins over Sunderland and their historic rivals have lifted the Red Devils up to ninth in the Premier League and within two points of fourth-placed Liverpool.

‘It was really important for our fans. They struggled against Grimsby, against Brentford and today they saw a different team,’ added Amorim. ‘To win in the stadium of the champions and our biggest rivals is really important.’

Despite the magnitude of the victory, Amorim was far from fully satisfied with his side’s performance.

Bryan Mbeumo gave the visitors the perfect start by firing home the opening goal after just 61 seconds.

United had chances to extend their lead as Bruno Fernandes hit the post, but also had to ride their luck.

Cody Gakpo hit the woodwork three times before the Dutch forward finally equalised on 78 minutes.

However, Maguire, who missed a glorious chance to win the game in a 2-2 draw when United last visited Anfield in January, was the unlikely hero when he headed in Fernandes’s cross.

‘Was a great win, not a very well-played game, but a great spirit and that is all I can ask,’ said Amorim.

Arne Slot blamed his side’s wastefulness in front of goal and set-piece defending for the latest in a string of poor results.

Not since 2014 have Liverpool lost four consecutive games.

Alexander Isak was denied his first Premier League goal since joining Liverpool for a British transfer record £125 million ($168 million) by Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens before half-time.

Mohamed Salah fired wide when presented with a huge chance early in the second period before Gakpo somehow headed off target with the opportunity to snatch a point after Maguire’s goal.

‘If you told me (before the game) we would create eight, nine or 10 open chances, I wouldn’t think that is possible. From all the chances we got, we only scored one goal,’ said Dutchman Slot.

‘It’s almost impossible to win a big game of football with a negative set-piece balance.

‘We conceded another one today that led to us losing the game.’

Defeat leaves Liverpool four points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal.

The World Bank’s release of the ‘Nigeria Development Update’ (NDU), October 2025 Edition, has elicited a Federal Government snarl at its harsh muse from Bretton Woods: author and finisher of its tough reform agenda! To the government’s ears, it all sounds as gratuitous cant from the World Bank.

Indeed, and to be fair: the bank sounds not unlike that mischievous Yoruba fellow that lured robbers to a farm, but also alerted the farm owner to, red-handed, catch the thieves! The pains the Bank/International Monetary Fund (IMF) now wail over result from their own harsh prescriptions!

But in fairness too to the World Bank/IMF: they have consistently stuck to their orthodoxy; which many claim – nay swear – is rigged to sustaining the cultural and economic hegemony of the West, against the other global emerging economies.

Now, is that claim true, or a wild conspiracy theory? Still, Bretton Woods has never compelled anyone to take its bitter pills. Yes, it has ‘conditionalities’, harsh, rigid and doctrinaire. But only nations that have run down their economies, to a virtual point of no return, seem self-compelled to gulp that tough brew.

So, to the extent that Nigeria freely chose to travel the World Bank path, for the tough and bold reforms to fix its tottering economy – and in all fairness, it has picked up verifiable results by that free, even if painful choice – why should it deny the bank the privilege of a progress report, on a process it’s midwifing?

On the surface, that’s a fair call: witness that same NDU pointing to progress already made; and stressing how the twin-basic shock therapy of ending petrol subsidy and floating the Naira, against foreign currencies, has tightened the economy; and is building robust fundamentals for sustainable growth.

The NDU executive summary: ‘Nigeria has made notable progress in stabilising its economy through bold reforms in fiscal, monetary, and trade policy . but these gains have yet to significantly improve living standards. With food inflation and poverty still high, the report calls for urgent action to reduce inflation, enhance public spending efficiency, and expand social protection.’

All clear and fair? Not exactly, especially with the mechanical misinterpretation of the Nigeria’s alleged poverty rate – not from specific or discrete data but from a woolly agglomeration that paints a far direr situation, which borders on disinformation.

Here, the official Federal Government response, via Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication: ‘While Nigeria values its partnership with the World Bank . the figure quoted must be properly contextualised. It is unrealistic,’ the release dismissed the bank’s claim that 139 million, out of an estimated 220 million Nigerians, now live below the poverty line.

Dare explained that the bank’s stock figure – living below US$ 2.15 a day, picked as global poverty line in 2017 – is rather misleading. It’s no 2025 headcount of the Nigerian poor. Rather, it’s a raw historical consumption data, mechanically applied on Nigeria, not a number which a specific, rigorous study threw up.

This loose application of data, the Presidency affirmed, made a mess of genuine anti-poverty efforts – as the conditional cash transfers to the 8.5 million poorest-of-the-poor Nigerian households – going hand-in-hand with the tough reforms. There’s some merit in that argument.

Which is why the World Bank should be wary of imposing its one-shoe-fits-all raw data, as some definitive and authoritative global poverty rate. For one, it should be more sensitive to countries swallowing its bitter pills.

For another, it should be careful that its data – loosely applied, therefore not that accurate – do not feed the cynical hysteria of local opposition politics, eager to shoot down the same reforms it’s fostering. That is enlightened self-interests, if it really wants these economies to find their levels.

Even then, the stringency of the Federal Government response to the NUD, being favourable in the main, is surprising. Might the government be craving a flat validation from the bank, hence its clear over-sensitivity?

If it did, it wasted its care – and that has nothing to do with World Bank/IMF reports. Rather than such craving, it should focus and grind out positive and verifiable results from its reforms.

Already it has the momentum: IMF already revised upwards its projected growth for Nigeria: to 3.9 % (in 2025) and 4.1% (in 2026). The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) also just announced inflation falling from 20.12% in August, to 18.02% in September – with the additional boon of falling food prices.

That’s the validation the government needs. If it stays that way, Breton Woods too would change tune.

Some motorists have raised fresh concerns over the conduct of officials enforcing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor rules along Ikorodu Road, alleging extortion, harassments, and abuse of power.

A video circulating on social media shows a distressed driver accusing members of the BRT Task Force of assaulting him and damaging his vehicle while attempting to stop him.

In the footage, the driver, narrated how the officials allegedly interfered with his steering and forcefully put his gear in reverse while the vehicle was still in motion.

‘They said I entered the BRT lane, but I didn’t. I have everything on record I was on my lane, before one of them reached into my car, put my gear back while I was still on the steering. Now the gear is not working, who will pay for the damage?,’ he said.

He further claimed that the officials demanded large sums from motorists, saying the alleged bribes ranged between N40,000 and N70,000, depending on the driver’s situation. They blocked motorists and started negotiating. Anyone who refuses to pay will have their car towed,’ he said.

Motorists and commuters have since taken to social media to call on the Lagos State Government, and the Police to investigate the matter and bring erring officials to book.

Many described the Task force’s activities as ‘lawless’ and ‘desperate,’ alleging that officers now operate outside the dedicated BRT lanes to extort motorists.

‘The BRT enforcement team was created to maintain discipline on the corridor, not to exploit citizens. This must stop before someone gets seriously hurt,’ a commercial driver at Mile 12 said.

As of press time, neither the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) nor the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has issued an official response to the allegations.

The 2025 NWFL Nationwide has officially concluded with four outstanding teams sealing promotion to the prestigious NWFL Championship for the 2026 season.

Dreamstar Ladies of Lagos secured an immediate and triumphant return to the second tier as Group A winners. They were joined from the same group by Rangers Women of Enugu, who made history by gaining promotion in their debut campaign.

In Group B, Solo Wonders FC of Akwa Ibom emerged as champions following an impressive run, while Rosaria Victrix of Imo State also secured their spot as runners-up, both achieving promotion in their maiden appearances in the third tier league.

The quartet – Dreamstar Ladies, Rangers Women, Solo Wonders, and Rosaria Victrix, have all earned their places among Nigeria’s emerging forces in women’s football, each finishing in the top two of their respective groups to book their tickets to the country’s second tier, NWFL Championship 2026.

Reflecting on the conclusion of the 2025 women’s football season, which encompassed the NWFL Premiership, Championship, and Nationwide, Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Women Football League, Modupe Shabi, expressed deep satisfaction with the smooth and successful execution across all tiers.

‘This 2025 season has been a remarkable journey for the NWFL. From the Premiership through the Championship to the Nationwide, we have witnessed great football, renewed competitiveness, and remarkable stories of resilience and growth across the country,’ Shabi stated.

She also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, for its unwavering support to women’s football and the continued strengthening of the league system.

Shabi further revealed that preparations are already underway to ensure an early kick-off of the 2025/2026 season, promising new innovations and an even more competitive league structure designed to sustain the progress and excitement across all levels of the NWFL.

‘We owe immense gratitude to the NFF President and his board for their backing and vision, which continue to inspire the growth of the women’s game. Our appreciation also goes to the various hosts, clubs, administrators, state FAs, match officials, and the media, every stakeholder who contributed to the success of this season,’ she added.

The successful completion of the 2025 NWFL season reaffirms the league’s unrelenting commitment to excellence, development, and inclusivity, as women’s football in Nigeria continues to grow in stature and impact nationwide.

A political support group under the aegis of the Kogi Alliance for Renewed Hope (KARH) has faulted comments by Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West, over his remarks on the recent endorsement rally for President Bola Tinubu in Lokoja.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its President, Toba Ogundele, and Secretary, Idris Abubakar, the group described Karimi’s comments as ‘disrespectful, misleading, and out of touch with the realities in Kogi State.’

KARH maintained that the people of Kogi remain firmly committed to supporting President Tinubu in 2027.

It dismissed Karimi’s claim that the people were being ‘bullied’ into supporting the President, saying the rally was a spontaneous and genuine show of goodwill from Kogites who are pleased with Tinubu’s leadership and developmental achievements across the country.

‘The people of Kogi State do not need to be coerced to support President Tinubu – they are already convinced by his actions and performance. From infrastructural projects to appointments of deserving Kogi indigenes, Mr President has demonstrated inclusion, fairness, and capacity that speak louder than any campaign slogan,’ the statement reads.

They said the endorsement rally in Lokoja, attended by grassroots party members and community leaders, was a show of unity and gratitude rather than political manipulation.

‘It is disappointing that a senator who benefited from the goodwill of the same people will dismiss their enthusiasm as coercion. President Tinubu’s policies have increased federal allocations, improved rural infrastructure, and created opportunities for small businesses in Kogi and beyond. These are tangible benefits, not empty promises,’ the statement said.

The group noted that the people of Kogi understand what leadership means and will not be swayed by those attempting to score cheap political points ahead of the 2027 general elections.

‘Senator Karimi’s attempt to discredit a peaceful, democratic endorsement only exposes his detachment from the grassroots. From Lokoja to Okene, Kabba to Ankpa, the message is clear: Kogi stands solidly behind Presidentt Tinubu because they have seen the difference between rhetoric and results,’ they said.

The forum urged political leaders from the state to put aside personal grievances and work in harmony to ensure that Kogi remains a stronghold of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

‘President Tinubu has shown unprecedented commitment to developing Kogi through infrastructural renewal and youth empowerment. The people of this state will willingly and proudly vote for him again in 2027 because his record speaks for itself,’ the statement added.

As more Nigerians explore opportunities abroad, several countries have introduced immigration pathways that make it easier for skilled workers and professionals to secure permanent residency.

1. Australia

Australia’s Employer-Sponsored Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa allows foreign workers to gain employment with approved employers. After two years on this visa, eligible holders can transition to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS 186).

This route is ideal for skilled professionals seeking long-term stability in Australia.

2. Netherlands

In the Netherlands, individuals who have legally resided in the country for five years – including time spent on the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) or EU Blue Card – can qualify for Long-Term EU Residence.

This status grants more mobility within the European Union and greater employment flexibility.

3. Ireland

Ireland provides one of the most attractive residency options in Europe. After five years of lawful residence on work or study permits, migrants can apply for Long-Term Residency (Stamp 4).

Holders of the Critical Skills Employment Permit may qualify even sooner, opening the door to permanent residence and eventual citizenship.

4. Germany

Germany’s EU Blue Card holders can obtain Permanent Residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) after 33 months. For those who achieve a B1 level in the German language, the timeframe shortens to just 21 months.

This makes Germany a top choice for skilled professionals seeking a stable life in Europe.

5. New Zealand

New Zealand offers the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which provides a clear path to residence after two years in eligible roles.

Additionally, skilled workers can apply directly for permanent residence through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.

Afrobeats sensation Ruger has responded to ongoing criticism, asserting that negative comments only fuel his ambition.

In a statement on X, the singer expressed frustration with those who dismiss his growth and accomplishments, while thanking fans who defend him against detractors.

‘The disrespect i get sometimes make me laugh. Like do you expect the negative things you say about me is gonna put me down? That sh*t fuels me i love it.

‘I wanna appreciate the people that take it upon themselves to defend me whenever all these rubbish things are said. Coz i don’t defend myself at all. So, tonight I’m so pissed at myself. Coz some people act like they don’t see what i do, how much I’ve grown, the stages i kill every year. They want to stick to a narrative HATERS!!! Y’all are needed in my victory story still so carry on,’ he wrote.

Ruger, who established BlownBoy Entertainment in 2024, dismissed claims that his touring career would decline, highlighting a robust performance schedule across Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, St. Lucia, Russia, Turks and Caicos, and London in 2024 and 2025.

‘The day i announced BLOWNBOY ENTERTAINMENT in 2024, someone said I won’t be touring anymore. Watch this. 2024 i toured EUROPE, CANADA, performed in AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

2025 i toured EUROPE again, AMERICA, St Lucia, RUSSIA, Turks and Caicos, London’, he added.

He also announced an upcoming Australian tour for 2026, emphasising his forward momentum.

‘I have already announced my AUSTRALIAN tour for 2026 i don Dey future already’, Ruger said.

He criticised the hypocrisy of those who condemn his stage performances involving women while praising similar acts by other artists, vowing to continue featuring women in his shows without apology.

‘I bring bed on top stage dem talk, but go ahead to praise any other person that brings a girl on stage. From now on you’ll see your girlfriends and aunties on my stage and nothing wey anybody go do’, he added.

Ruger also took aim at colleagues who disparage him, particularly those with less international exposure, and refused to engage in their disputes, citing his extensive global travels as a point of pride.

He added: ‘Lastly, i will never reply to any of my colleagues that run their mouth on my name. Especially the ones that don’t have as much visas as i have on my passport. You all will bend a knee soon’.

Affirming his rising influence, Ruger expressed confidence in his trajectory and readiness to embrace critics when his success becomes undeniable.

‘I am the truth and no matter how late some of you realise it, I’ll still accept you with open arms. It is very close. God is good. And I’m RICH AS F3CK bye,’ he stated.