Category: The Nation – Nigeria

A university don and energy governance scholar, Prof. Josiah Danladi, has commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as a ‘bold and transformative recalibration’ of Nigeria’s oil and gas upstream sector.

Speaking at the Citizens Connect Conference in Lagos, Prof. Danladi said the President’s leadership has revived public confidence in the sector through reforms anchored on transparency, accountability, and data-driven governance.

‘For decades, the oil and gas sector symbolised both our promise and our pain. We have heard stories of corruption, inefficiency, and missed opportunities. Yet today, there is a new story unfolding – a story of reform, renewal, and restoration,’ he said.

‘Under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, and through the diligent leadership of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) led by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the sector has been reborn on the firm foundation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). What Nigerians are witnessing today is not luck; it is leadership – structured, deliberate, and data-driven.’

Prof. Danladi noted that the reforms are beginning to yield tangible results across the value chain.

According to him, ‘in just two years, NUPRC has demonstrated what happens when political will meets professional excellence. The Commission has generated over ?12.25 trillion in revenue for the federation within this short span – an unprecedented achievement reflecting the efficiency of new monitoring systems and enforcement mechanisms.’

The university don highlighted the far-reaching impact of fuel subsidy removal, which he said has freed up resources now being channelled into developmental priorities.

‘The policy has led to 200 per cent increase in allocations to states and local governments, road projects, hospital projects, power sector development, student loan scheme and increment in NYSC allowances,’ he said.

Expanding on the broader economic benefits, Prof. Danladi added that Nigeria is witnessing a gradual transition from being a net importer to a potential net exporter of refined petroleum products.

‘Dormant oil blocks are returning to productivity, production reporting is now electronic, and field development plans are strictly monitored for compliance. The era of discretionary approvals and rent-seeking is fading away, replaced by process, predictability, and performance,’ he said.

‘Equally important is the focus on gas-the transition fuel for Nigeria’s economic future. Under the Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme, investors are now turning environmental liability into economic opportunity. We are reducing waste, protecting our planet, and creating jobs.

‘These are not abstract policy shifts. They are the building blocks of a more transparent and sustainable energy future-and they are happening under President Tinubu’s watch.’

According to Prof. Danladi, reforms in the oil and gas industry are only meaningful if they translate into better living conditions for citizens.

He said the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has reshaped not only the governance framework but also the relationship between government, corporations, and host communities.

‘The Petroleum Industry Act did not only restructure institutions; it redefined relationships-between government, industry, and the communities that bear the weight of extraction. Under Komolafe’s leadership, the Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) have become the bridge between promise and delivery,’ he said.

‘More than ?358 billion has so far been remitted to these trusts, funding over 500 community projects in education, healthcare, road construction, and youth empowerment across oil-producing regions. For the first time, host communities are not treated as afterthoughts-they are partners. The principle is simple: those who live with the consequences of resource extraction must share in its benefits.

‘This is what President Tinubu envisioned when he speaks about Renewed Hope. Hope that is not poetic but practical; hope that builds hospitals, powers schools, and brings opportunity to communities long forgotten.’

Prof. Danladi said the renewed emphasis on transparency and accountability has restored investor confidence in Nigeria’s oil sector.

‘Transparency has also become a defining feature of the new order. NUPRC’s electronic reporting platforms allow real-time production tracking and cargo declaration-cutting out leakages that once drained our national purse. The days of guessing how much crude Nigeria produces are gone. The data now speaks for itself,’ he said.

‘The Commission has also introduced robust systems for measuring flare gas, tracking royalty payments, and enforcing environmental standards. This is governance at work-silent, methodical, transformative.

‘International rating agencies and investors now describe Nigeria’s oil regulatory framework as more predictable and investor-friendly than at any time in the past decade. The reforms have positioned our country as an emerging energy investment hub on the continent.’

Prof. Danladi stressed that the gains of the past two years must be protected through continuity and focus.

‘These achievements did not emerge in a vacuum. They are the product of a reform-minded administration that prioritised competence over complacency. But every reform is a journey, not an event-and journeys can be interrupted,’ he stressed.

‘The truth is that what we have gained in the last two years can easily be lost if the focus shifts from reform to rhetoric. Nigeria cannot afford to go backwards. We must protect this momentum by ensuring that the same political will that birthed these achievements is renewed in 2027.’

He said Nigerians are increasingly satisfied with the performance of the NUPRC, describing it as one of the most effective and forward-looking regulatory institutions under the Tinubu administration.

Contrary to rumour being peddled on social media and sections of the society, court documents have revealed that the newly nominated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan was never a member of the legal team of President Bola Tinubu at both the presidential election tribunal and the Supreme Court while the dispute over the 2023 presidential election lasted.

A search by The Nation through the lists of counsels’ appearances contained in the certified true copies (CTC) of the three judgments of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPC) and the two final judgments of the Supreme Court in the 2023 presidential election dispute did not reflect Prof Amupitan’s name.

Those peddling the rumour may have been unable to distinguish the name of Professor Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), who appeared with Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) along with others for Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima from that of Professor Joash Amupitan.

The PEPC rendered its consolidated judgment on September 6, 2023 on the three petitions that it fully considered.

The three petitions were:

*Petition No: CA/PEPC/03/2023 was filed by Peter Obi and Labour Party (LP), with INEC, Tinubu, Shettima and APC as 1st, 2nd , 3rd and 4th respondents.

*Petition No: CA/PEPC/04/2023 was filed by Allied Peoples Movement (APM), with INEC, APC, Tinubu, Shettima and Kabir Masari listed as 1st to 5th respondents respectively.

*Petition No: CA/PEPC/05/2023 was filed by Atiku Abubakar and the PDP, with INEC, Tinubu and the APC listed as 1st to 3rd respondents respectively.

Appearances of lawyers in Peter Obi and LP’s petition were recorded as follows:

For the petitioners were: Dr. Livy Uzoukwu (SAN, Awa Kalu (SAN), Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Chief Ben. Anachebe (SAN), Ikechukwu Ezechukwu (SAN), J.S. Okutepa (SAN), Prof. Paul Ananaba (SAN), Dr. Mrs. Valerie – Janette Azinge (SAN), Emeka Okpoko (SAN), Alex Ejesieme (SAN), Peter Afuba (SAN), Emenike Mbanugo, Chike A. Obi and Vincent Ottaokpukpu.

Appearance for INEC (1st respondent) included: A.B. Mahmoud (SAN), Miannaya Essien (SAN), Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), T.M. Inuwa (SAN), Alhassan A. Umar (SAN), Abdulaziz Sani and S.O. Ibrahim (SAN), Nasara H. Auta, Aminu Sadauki, and Dr. Patricia Obi.

Those who appeared for Tinubu and Kashim Shettima (2nd and 3rd respondents) were: Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel! Ukala (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), Dele Adesina (SAN), Dr. Hassan Liman (SAN), Olatunde Busari (SAN), A.U. Mustapha (SAN), Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Bode Olanipekun (SAN), A.A. Malik (SAN), Funmilayo Quadri (SAN), Babatunde Ogala (SAN), Dr. Remi Olatubora (SAN), and M.O. Adebayo (SAN), Emmanuel Uwadoka, Yinka Ajenifuja, and Akintola Makinde.

For the APC (4th respondent) L.O. Fagbemi (SAN), Chief Dr. Charles U. Edosomwan (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), Chukwuma Ekomani (SAN), Abiodun J. Owonikoko (SAN), Solomon Umoh (SAN), Hakeem O. Afolabi (SAN), Y.H.A. Ruba (SAN), Chief Anthony Adeniyi (SAN), Mumuni Hanafi (SAN), Japhat Opawale, Olanrewaju Akinshola, and Huwaila M, Ibrahim.

In the petition by APM, Andrew Nwajim Malgwi (SAN), G.A. Idiagbonya, J.0. Olotu, Joyce Torkula, Ndidi Naku, and L.J. Ashaku weed recorded as appearing for the petitioner.

Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), T.M. Inuwa (SAN), Alhassan A. Umar (SAN), Dr. Patricia Obi, Wendy Kuku and M.A. Attah appeared for the 1st respondent (INEC).

For the APC (2nd respondents) Prince L.O. Fagbemi (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Aliyu O. Saiki (SAN) and A.M. Rafindadi (SAN), Ahmad El-Marzuq, Omosanya Popoola, and Folake Abiodun.

Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) led the legal team of Tinubu and Shettima, which also featured Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Babatunde Ogala (SAN), Funmilayo Quadri (SAN), A.R. Arobo, Akintola makinde and Yinka Ajenifuja.

The legal team for Masari (the 5th respondent in this petition) was made up of Dr. Rowland Otaru (SAN), A.A. Malik (SAN), Chris E. Agbiti, Gabriel M. Ishom, Chief Yomi Aliyu (SAN), G.M. Ishom, O.R. Iyere and Edeji Adaeze.

In respect of the petition by Atiku and the PDP, Chief Chris Uche (SAN) Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Nella Andem-Ewa Rabana (SAN), Dr. Garba Tetengi (SAN), Mahmoud Magaji (SAN), Joe Abraham (SAN), Chukwuma-Machukwu Ume (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN), Prof. Maxwel M. Gidado (SAN), Gordy Uche (SAN), Edward Ashiekaa (SAN), A.K. Ajibade (SAN), Abdul A. Ibrahim (SAN), Paul Harris Ogbole (SAN), Kemasuode Wodu (SAN), Andrew M. Malgwi (SAN), Prof. Yusuf Dankofa, M.S. Atolagbe, and Olabode Makinde appeared for the petitioners.

A.B. Mahmoud (SAN), Miannaya Essien (SAN), Abdullahi Aliyu (SAN, Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), T.M. Inuwa (SAN), Alhassan A. Umar (SAN), Abdulaziz Sani (SAN), S.O. Ibrahim (SAN), Nasara H. Auta, Aminu Sadauki, and Dr. Patricia Obi appeared for INEC (the first respondent).

Tinubu (the second respondent) was represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), Adebayo Adelodun (SAN), Oladele Adesina (SAN), Dr. Hassan Liman (SAN), Olatunde Busari (SAN), Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Bode Olanipekun (SAN), Mrs. Funmilayo Quadri (SAN), Babatunde Ogala (SAN), Dr. Remi Olatubora (SAN) M.O. Adebayo (SAN), A.A. Malik (SAN), Yinka Ajenifuja, Akintola Makinde, and Julius Ishola.

The APC consisted of Prince L. O. Fagbemi (SAN), Dr. Charles U. Edosomwan,(SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Chief A. Fashanu (SAN), Chukwuma Ekoneani (SAN), Abodun J. Owonikoko (SAN), Sam T. Ologunorisha (SAN), Solomon Umoh (SAN), Hakeem O. Afolabi (SAN), Olusola Oke (SAN), Aliyu O. Sanu (SAN), Y. H. A. Ruba (SAN), Chief Anthony Adeniyi (SAN), Mumumi Hanafi (SAN), Ahmad El-Marzuq, Seun Ajayi, and Omosanya Popoola, including Adeniyi Kazeem (SAN).

At the Supreme Court, the judgment was delivered on October 26, 2023 in the appeal marked: SC/CV/937/2023 filed by Peter Obi and the LP, which had INEC, Tinubu, Shettima and the APC as the 1st to 4th respondents respectively.

*The judgment of the Supreme Court was equally delivered on October 26, 2023 in the appeal marked: SC/CV/935/2023 filed by Abubakar Atiku and the PDP, with INEC, Tinubu and the APC as the 1st to 3rd respondents.

The legal team of Peter Obi and the LP (who were the appellants) was made up of Dr. Livy Uzochukwu, (SAN), Awa Kalu (SAN), Alex Ejesieme (SAN), Peter Afuba (SAN) and Chike Obi.

The first respondent (INEC was represented by A. B. Mahmoud, (SAN), Miannaya Essien (SAN), Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), Musa A. Attah, Chukwudi Enebeli.

Tinubu and Shettima (2nd and 3rd respondents) were represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel Ukala, (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN) and Akintola Makinde.

The APC team was made up of Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Charles Uwensuyi – Edosomwon, (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola, (SAN), Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN and Olumide Olujinmi.

In relation to the appeal by Atiku and the PDP, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Nella Andem-Ewa Rabana (SAN) and Ahmed T. Uwais represented the appellants.

INEC (the 1st respondent) was represented by A. B. Mahmoud (SAN), Dr. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), Abdullahi Aliyu (SAN), S. O. Ibrahim (SAN), Aminu Sadauki and Wendy Kuku.

Tinubu was represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN) and Akintola Makinde.

The APC was represented by Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Chief Charles Uwensuji Edosonwan (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN) and Olumide Olujinmi.

New INEC chair not member of Tinubu’s legal team – Ogala

Erstwhile Coordinator of Tinubu Presidential Legal Team, Babatunde Ogala (SAN) has dismissed the rumour that the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) was a member of Tinubu’s legal team as false and misleading claims.

Ogala, in a statement signed by him, asked the general public to disregard the ‘baseless’ claims.

His words: ‘My attention has been drawn to several false and misleading claims currently circulating on social media, alleging that Prof. Amupitan SAN recently appointed as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was a member of the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team.

‘As the erstwhile Coordinator of that legal team, I feel compelled, not as a rejoinder, but in service to truth and public interest, to set the records straight and allay any concerns these malicious fabrications may have caused among well-meaning Nigerians.’

For the avoidance of doubt, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said Prof. Amupitan SAN was never, at any point, a member of the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team. ‘His name does not appear among the over One Hundred and Twenty-three legal practitioners who were formally engaged for that assignment, of whom sixty (60) were distinguished Senior Advocates of Nigeria. At no time during the entire process was his counsel, opinion, or professional service sought or rendered.

‘I therefore challenge anyone peddling this falsehood to produce verifiable evidence to the contrary. In fact, any member of the public may apply for Certified True Copies of all legal processes filed on behalf of the President-Elect (as he then was) to confirm the authenticity of this statement. While political discourse is inevitable in any democracy, it is essential that our engagement remains anchored on truth, decency, and national stability. Deliberately twisting facts to inflame public sentiment serves no one and only endangers our collective peace.’

He emphasized that Mr. President has lawfully exercised his constitutional prerogative in making this appointment and the Council of State has approved same. ‘It is therefore incumbent upon all responsible citizens, leaders, and media practitioners to reject narratives that are baseless, divisive, unkind, uncharitable and capable of undermining public trust.

‘I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and the continued strengthening of our democratic institutions. Let truth, not mischief guide our national conversations. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

You can’t fail Nigerians, opposition lawmakers tell Amupitan

Nigeria’s opposition lawmakers’ coalition yesterday threw their weight behind the appointment of Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) admitting that his professional background will aide him to deliver on his assignment and not fail Nigerians

The National Council of State on Thursday approved the nomination of Prof. Amupitan, a serving Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos as the new Chairman of INEC to succeed Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who stepped down from the position on Tuesday.

Spokesperson of the coalition, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere urged Amupitan not to disappoint Nigerians, but prioritise their interests over political interests.

The statement reads in part, ‘For us as opposition coalition lawmakers, we welcome the appointment made by the President, appointing Amupitan as the new INEC Chairman because looking at his background in terms of academic excellence he comes highly recommended. He can’t fail, he has been a lecturer and a lawyer

‘We have an INEC chairman that knows the difficulty in proving election petition, knows the loopholes etc. He has taught it in the classroom and practiced it in the field and now he’s going to execute it. He has no reason to fail. He has all the professional qualifications required to administer a successful INEC.

‘We don’t have any history of his bad deed, if we do, we would have been among those who will say no to this appointment. We need to judge the man by his past standards, and those past standards are in his professional record.

‘Let us allow him to transition into the position then we start watching his efforts, decisions as the day goes by. The election coming up in Anambra will be a test case to his capacity to handle INEC. Osun too.

‘We believe he has reason to succeed and we also believe he has no reason to fail because he has the professional capacity. Those things he has experienced in the field, now he has the capacity to adjust those loopholes that’s unending. So we welcome his appointment and support him as long as he continues to administer INEC in compliance with the provisions of the law.’

INEC denies disobeying court order, clarifies position on AA leadership dispute

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has not breached any judgment of the Federal High Court which ordered it to recognise the Action Alliance’s (AA) executive elected on 7th October 2023 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Oumekun said in a statement that the commission has fully complied with the order of court.

He said there was no order of court ordering the arrest of the immediate past chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu.

The statement reads: ‘Our attention has been drawn to some media reports making the rounds about an order made by the Federal High Court, Oshogbo, Osun State 11 days ago on 29th September 2025, for the arrest of the immediate past INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu for purportedly disobeying its judgement on a case involving the Action Alliance party (AA).

‘But the misleading reports mischievously omitted the Commission’s subsequent action on the case, erroneously portrayed the matter involving a corporate entity, namely INEC, as an individual affair and gave the wrong impression that the Court gave a fresh order after the initial pronouncement made on 29th September.

‘In line with its long-established tradition of always obeying court judgements and orders, the Commission on Monday 6th October 2025, which was still within the deadline, filed processes at the Federal High Court, Oshogbo to show that we had complied with its judgement and order of recognising the Action Alliance’s (AA) executive elected on 7th October 2023 at Abeokuta, Ogun State.

‘The dashboard of the Commission’s web site showing compliance was tendered as evidence.

‘However, when the judgement creditors filed a counter affidavit to complain that the Commission partially complied by listing the names of only four national executives without the National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje, the Commission responded by attaching the Notice of Appeal filed by the same Omoaje at the Supreme Court, challenging the judgement of the Court of Appeal sacking him as the National Chairman of the party.

‘The judgement of the Court of Appeal is superior to that of the federal high court, hence, the Commission cannot list Omoaje’s name as the Chairman of the Action Alliance party when the judgement of the Appeal Court is still subsisting.

‘We appeal to media organisations to fact-check their reports before publication to avoid misleading the public’.

Meanwhile, the Chief Technical Adviser to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Bolade Eyinla has explained why it isn’t feasible to strip the president of power to appoint the commission’s chairman as the 2027 general election approaches.

He disclosed this while speaking at the YIAGA Africa 2027 elections scenarios and election manipulation risk in red retreat in Abuja.

According to him, ‘any talk of reviewing the process of appointing the Chairman, National and Resident Electoral Commissioners of INEC by removing the power of appointment from the President under the prevailing circumstances is not feasible before the 2027 general election in view of the tedious process of altering any of the provisions in the Constitution.’

He explained that after a review of the 2023 general election, 142 recommendations were made for improving the electoral process, adding that the Commission has taken necessary steps to implement some of the recommendations arising from the review that requires administrative action.

Côte d’Ivoire remain one point clear at the top after a clinical demolition of Seychelles.

The AFCON 2023 champions were four up by half-time through goals from Ibrahim Sangare, Emmanuel Agbadou, Oumar Diakite, and Evann Guessand.

Second-half strikes from Yan Diomande, Simon Adingra, and Franck Kessie completed the rout.

Victory means Emerse Fae’s men need only to beat Kenya on Tuesday to confirm their World Cup spot.

Rapper Odumodublvck has addressed criticism about his rap skills, pointing out his success and international collaborations as proof of his talent.

In a recent interview, Odumodublvck said despite claims that his rap skills are subpar, he’s the most featured Nigerian rapper by international artists and has sold out shows globally, including in Canada.

He attributed the negative opinions to envy, emphasising that his songs consistently top the charts and he secures more bookings than his peers.

According to him, he is a proof to overcoming obstacles.

He questioned the quality of other rappers’ music, highlighting the disparity between their success and his own.

Odumodublvck said: ‘In Nigeria, they said that my rap is not good but I’m the most featured rapper by international artists. Do you know what I’m saying? Yeah, it’s just a problem of envy because I sing my hooks, you know, the songs are really nice. They give me more bookings than them.

‘I have more songs on the charts. The envy is deep especially when they think they are better.

‘You get what I’m saying but we’ll pay no mind to that. We’ll just continue, you know, pushing boundaries for those that believe. Let them continue to tune in because it’s very unfortunate for the people on the other side because this thing is not going to stop anytime soon.

‘This is God’s glory in full display. You get me? I’m like a testimony. You know, coming from Abuja, they say we cannot blow.

‘They say we should not use hip-hop. Everything they say we could not do. I went down that path and now I’m in Canada.

‘I’m the only rapper in Nigeria that has sold out a show in Canada but I cannot rap. So what is this that you guys are rapping? Kendrick Lamar is rapping what you guys are rapping now but you guys are not selling out. Stop deceiving us’.

Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner Phyna has broken silence after facing criticism for partying with actress Regina Daniels shortly after her sister’s burial.

A video of Phyna dancing and laughing at a nightclub sparked backlash with some users accusing her of being insensitive and moving on too quickly.

In a message, Phyna emphasised that grief is a personal process and everyone handles it differently.

She noted that there’s no manual or timeline for grieving, and her choice to live, smile, or share moments doesn’t erase the pain she carries.

Phyna urged her followers to respect her process and extend compassion, even if they don’t understand it.

‘Grief has no manual, no fixed face, and no timetable. The fact that I choose to keep living, smiling, or sharing moments does not erase the pain I carry. Respect the process, even if you do not understand it. If you cannot extend compassion, then at least extend silence,’ she said.

Regina Daniels defended Phyna, saying people should stop judging others for how they choose to heal.

Gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has shared a heart-wrenching testimony of his wife’s struggles with miscarriages.

The Hallelujah Challenge is a month-long virtual praise and worship session hosted by Bassey, drawing thousands of believers online to sing, pray, and share testimonies.

During the early hours of Friday while leading the ongoing edition, Bassey revealed that his wife experienced five miscarriages, including an ectopic pregnancy, amid those challenging times.

According to him, he would often leave the hospital to minister online, then return to be with his wife in the hospital.

Bassey revealed that his wife’s health challenges were a significant test of their faith but he remained committed to his ministry.

‘My wife will have to forgive me. Do you know there were times during the Hallelujah Challenge when we had a miscarriage, and nobody knew? I would still come online to praise and dance,’ Bassey recounted.

He added: ‘A few years ago, she was in the hospital with an ectopic pregnancy. I would leave, lead praise and worship online, then return to the hospital and the nurses attending to her would tell me, ‘It was powerful tonight.’ Not one, not two not three or four pregnancies, but five.

‘So when people say, ‘Where is God?’ I say, I understand. God is faithful. One of the words He gave us was, ‘Don’t give up on God.’

The couple, married since 2013, has two children, a son and a daughter.

Bassey used his experience to encourage believers to remain steadfast in faith, emphasising God’s faithfulness even in difficult circumstances.

Muhammad-Lawal Kurya,the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the recently concluded by-election for the Kaura Namoda South Constituency by-election has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kurya announced his defection in Gusau on Saturday at the stakeholders consultation meeting for Zamfara Central organised by a popular APC group, ‘Yazeed Project’.

Kurya, a former PDP candidate who contested in the recently concluded State House of Assembly by-election was defeated by the APC candidate, Kamilu Sa’idu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was organised to woo Hon. Yazeed Danfulani to contest for the Zamfara Central Senatorial District in the 2027 General Elections.

The meeting was attended by 550 members comprising youths, women, social media handlers, elders and community leaders, among others, all of them from Zamfara central senatorial district.

Kurya said he defected from PDP to APC because of negligence from the PDP leadership in the state.

‘I have so many personal and political reasons that necessitated me to defect from to PDP to APC.

‘Since when I lost the by-election, the party leadership and top government officials of Zamfara neglected me, in fact, most of them blocked my access to them.

‘I think as a politician with a large number of followers, I have to change my political movement to a party that is ready to carry me,’ he said

According to him, another major reason was that he had suffered from PDP over the years.

Kurya said, ‘ I have been working for the party since during the 2023 general elections but there was no any reward.

‘Today, I decided to join the APC considering the popularity of the party in the just-concluded by-election that I contested under the PDP.

‘The APC has massive supporters from my constituency, all the records and results of the APC during the by-election were true.

‘Our election was free as well as fair and honestly, I was defeated by the APC candidate, Kamilu Sa’idu.

‘Therefore, I decided to join the APC considering its popularity, good leadership and it is a party with grassroots structure across the state.’

According to him, with the leadership of the party under the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, Sen. Abdul’aziz Yari and the state APC Chairman, Hon Tukur Danfulani, the party would continue to grow from strength to strength.

‘I have the confidence that the APC will not neglect me the way PDP did to me after I have spent a lot from my pocket for the party’s victory in the 2023 governorship election in the state’, Kurya added.

Receiving the former PDP candidate to the APC, the State APC Chairman, Tukur Danfulani, represented by the State Publicity Secretary, Malam Yusuf Idris, described the development as a great achievement for the APC.

‘On behalf of the APC leadership in the state particularly the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle and Sen. Abdul’aziz Yari, we are happy today to receive Muhammad-Lawal Kurya to the APC.

‘We welcome you to a progressive party, we are ready to go ahead with you, your defection today indicated the soaring popularity of the APC in the state.

‘I believe, more are coming to the APC, very soon many serving lawmakers and serving Commissioners would join the party,’ Idris assured.

Speaking earlier, Abubakar Sadiq, the State Coordinator, Yazeed Project, said the meeting for Hon Yazeed Danfulani was to throw their weight behind Danfulani for the Zamfara central senatorial district in the 2027 general elections.

‘We have 550 participants of this epochal event comprising representatives and Coordinators from political wards across the four local government areas of Zamfara Central,’ Sadiq explained.

A new kid on the Nigerian musical block named Bolu The Rapper has taken centre stage saying he is inspired by Olamide Baddoo.

Armed with a six (6) tracks album released under Roppongi Records, Bolu The Rapper seems to have so much musical promise.

The 18 year-old, who just graduated from high school, noted that he comes in the mould of Dagrin, Mohbad and Olamide all in one and also is sure to go places.

Born Boluwatife Oluwafemi Moses, Bolu The Rapper came into the spotlight after winning a talent competition organised by Oshodi, Lagos- based entertainment company and held at the famous Roppongi Bar and Lounge, Oshodi, Lagos with a recording contract for the winner.

Already, a six tracks EP titled Wotilawo has been released on music platforms including youtube

A hot single titled Benz is bouncing off the EP and has become a serenade in Oshodi, Lagos.

The Revd. Canon Abiodun Ola Okunnuga, served as a member of the youth choir under Dr Kolade, at St. Peter’s, Faji, Lagos, recounts with nostalgia, his association with him.

According to him, long before he became a towering figure in Nigeria’s corporate and diplomatic circles, Dr Kolade served as Choirmaster at St. Peter’s Church, Faji, Lagos, one of the oldest and most historic Anglican churches in the city.

He said, ‘His time in that role remains etched in the memories of those who passed through the choir under his firm but fatherly guidance. In the Anglican tradition, the choirmaster plays a crucial role: training and directing the choir, ensuring musical excellence during services, selecting appropriate hymns and anthems, and working closely with the clergy to uphold the dignity of worship. Dr Kolade embodied these responsibilities with characteristic diligence and grace.

‘When my father, then Canon Bandele Okunnuga, was Vicar of St. Peter’s between 1990 and 1992, I had the privilege of being a choir boy under his leadership. At the time, he was Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria, yet he approached his church duties with the same discipline and excellence that defined his public life. Choir rehearsals began at exactly 6:00 p.m., but Dr Kolade was always in church by 5:00 p.m.

‘Timekeeping was non-negotiable. You dared not arrive late for rehearsals or church services; he led by example, and everyone took their cue from him. I remember one Sunday service vividly. Three of us in the front row began chatting during the sermon. Dr Kolade was seated nearby. Without uttering a word, he pointed at each of us in turn and signalled for us to stand. That quiet gesture spoke volumes; it was the last time I ever whispered during a service or rehearsal.

He was a man of high discipline, yet he carried himself with humility and warmth. He was approachable, generous, and jovial with us as young choristers, but he never lowered the bar. Under his leadership, the choir wasn’t just about music; it was a place where character was shaped. His example at St. Peter’s Faji remains a lasting testament to the way faith, discipline, and leadership can blend seamlessly in the service of God.’

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has said that Nigeria’s mining sector has recorded significant growth over the past decade.

He also said that the sector has increased its contribution to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from less than 0.5 per cent in the 10 years to about 1.8 per cent with a target of 3 per cent within the next few years.

The minister disclosed this yesterday during a pre-event press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 10th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled for 13-15 October, 2025.

Alake noted that the week provides an opportunity for stakeholders to review sectoral progress, assess challenges, and align on policy directions going forward, stressing that the event ‘is not only a technical convening but also an occasion to reinforce national objectives around value addition, environmental responsibility, and community development.’

The minister then highlighted the various reforms being undertaken under the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda to improve governance and enhance transparency in the sector.

‘Some of these include strengthening of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) to support project financing and private sector participation, expansion of geological mapping and digitization of mineral data to improve access to information for potential investors.

‘Others are creation of Mining Marshals in collaboration with security agencies, to address illegal mining and improve safety in mining areas, operational improvements at the Mining Cadastral Office to ensure a more transparent and accountable licensing process; amongst others.’

Alake noted that Nigeria’s mining policy now focuses on beneficiation and value addition rather than the historical model of raw material exportation, adding that his Ministry is working to align the sector with broader national goals, including industrialization, job creation, and sustainable development.

He then said that the forthcoming Mining Week would include discussions on critical minerals, infrastructure requirements, and investment frameworks, especially as Nigeria explores the global energy transition and increasing demand for minerals such as lithium and rare earth elements.

President of Miners Association of Nigeria, Mr. Dele Ayanleke, described the week as a major milestone in Nigeria’s mining journey, marking a decade of dialogue, innovation, and sector-wide collaboration.

Ayanleke, who commended the minister for his leadership in driving sector reforms, acknowledged the support of stakeholders, sponsors, and industry partners.

Acknowledging that progress has been made in exploration, data availability, and local beneficiation, the President noted that the sector still grapples with challenges such as illegal mining, insecurity, and infrastructure deficits

Earlier a partner from PricewaterhouseCoopers, PwC, Habeeb Jaiyeola stressed that the annual event has served as the foremost platform for shaping the conservation on Nigeria’s mining self-driving dialogue, building consensus and crafting solutions that position mining as a true engine of shared prosperity for all Nigerians.

Also, the representatives from VUKA Group, Samukelo Madlabane, emphasised that discussions would be focused on exploration finance, the rise of indigenous junior miners, and the creation of a globally competitive investment climate.