Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Former Super Eagles stars, Samuel Sodje and Benedict Akwuegbu, have criticised Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign, insisting that the team does not merit a place on the global stage given the country’s poor football management and preparation.

Speaking in separate interviews, both expressed frustration over Nigeria’s repeated struggles to qualify for the Mundial, blaming systemic issues rather than just players’ performances.

Akwuegbu, a 2002 FIFA World Cup participant, was blunt in his assessment.

‘For me, I think the truth is to say whether we qualify or not, we don’t deserve to be at the World Cup,’ he said in an interview on Brila Fm. ‘The football federation is not properly run and unless things change, it will only get worse.’

The former striker lamented Nigeria’s lack of planning and continuity in coaching, noting that managerial instability has derailed the team’s progress.

‘We crossed the wrong line years ago and changing managers has only made things worse. Preparation has been poor, and it affects everyone,’ he added.

Sodje, who represented Nigeria as a defender, echoed similar concerns, stressing that administration and governance failures have put the Eagles at risk of missing another World Cup.

‘I don’t think we deserve to be there, very clear,’ Sodje remarked. ‘From day one, things have not been done properly. If you don’t put things right at the top, the players will always suffer.’

Both men emphasized that football is about long-term planning, investment, and giving opportunities to young coaches, warning that Nigeria’s footballing future would remain bleak if urgent reforms are not carried out.

Sir: The insecurity in the Southern part of Kwara State in recent time is becoming unbearable with the last despicable incident at Oke-Ode in Ifelodun Local Government in the early hours of Sunday September 28.

Reliable reports suggest that guns were retrieved from local security men under a questionable circumstance a day before. The guns are barely a month old; the town’s security committee acquired and licensed them for community use because of the recent attacks on neighbouring towns and villages.

Behold the hoodlums/bandits struck; killing 15 security men which include the Baale of Agboayo community and several other people were kidnapped. As we speak now, most towns and villages around us are deserted and the people are now taking refuge in Ilorin and Lagos (wherever their relatives are).

The state government is yet to show any concern for the security of lives and property in the whole of Kwara South. The government is more on reaction after every attack than being proactive from available security reports.

Communities like Oke-Ode have resorted to self-help with the empowering of local

vigilante group because the state government seem to be bereft of any idea to deal with these criminal elements.

Most suspected and arrested kidnappers are usually released thereafter. Can you imagine the state commissioner of police releasing a press report saying that ‘about 40 suspected kidnappers who were seen and arrested riding motor cycles in our forest have all been released after profiling them and finding nothing incriminating on them’.

So riding a bicycle in the forest is now a private expedition with no aim or destination.

What a country and what a double standard on crime and criminality?

It is imperative now for our local and state government to wake up from their slumber and stop their deceptive attitude to the current state of insecurity in Kwara State.

Our people need to be alive to vote as 2027 election seem to be more important to the state government now than securing the lives of our people.

Stop taking us (Igbominas) for granted, you may be making the greatest mistake of

I plead with Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman to leave up to expectation and prove me wrong that elements in his administration are not aiding and abetting criminals in our land.

Posterity and history shall judge the governor in this regard. This is the right time for him to right the wrong. We need to be secured in our land. Enough of bloodshed in our land.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the book ‘Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum,’ by former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, will provide guidance and serves as a road map for the nation to build a safer future.

Tinubu said this when his spoke as the Special Guest of Honour during the launch of the book at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, on Friday.

Represented by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, Tinubu said Irabor has demonstrated that ‘leadership in war is not solely about firepower, but also about intellectuals’.

He said, as Theater Commander, Irabor confronted an existential threat to our national identity with the desired determination and pragmatism.

‘Scars tells a story. It reminds us of pain but it also proves that survival is possible. Therefore, the scars we carry as a nation are evidence of our resilience.

‘They remind us of the sacrifice of our heroes past, soldiers, displaced families, and communities,’ Tinubu said.

The President emphasised that the book encourages learning from past experiences to build a safer, more stable future. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to this vision, highlighting the Renewed Hope Agenda’s goal of transforming Nigeria into a nation of peace, opportunity, and unity.

Tinubu emphasised that security is central to his vision, highlighting efforts to modernize the armed forces with cutting-edge technology and platforms.

‘We are also streamlining intelligence gathering capability and deepening regional partnership to boost collective security.

‘We are investing in a whole-of-society approach to security so that peace is not only won on the battlefield but sustained in daily life with participation of the citizens.

‘Let all Nigerians be aware that we will not rest until we defeat all indices of insecurity,’ the President said.

He praised the book as a powerful testament to the importance of ideas in addressing challenges, noting that General Irabor’s work reminds us to cherish and pursue peace, never forgetting the cost of achieving it.

‘Let us use this occasion not only to acknowledge the book but also to affirm our commitment to working together toward a future where every Nigerian can live without fear, thrive in peace, and contribute to the nation’s greatness,’ the President said.

Former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, called for a collective action against Boko Haram.

Monguno identified defective governance and impaired national cohesion as factors hampering peace in the country.

He said the struggle for power within the state, share of resource allocations and fear of domination by ethnic nationalities were making it impossible to address the issue of insecurity.

He said the challenges can be addressed through national cohesion.

‘You cannot address insecurity in the absence of national cohesion. The issue of national cohesion is very important.

‘You cannot legislate love, and you cannot enforce affection, it is something that must come from within,’ Monguno said.

All is set for the flag off of the Ibom Ignite Conference 2025 with a target of empowering over 1500 youths on leadership and entrepreneurship.

A statement by the Chairman of the Central Planing Committee, Pastor Imo-abasi Jacob, indicates that the conference is slated for today Friday and Saturday, October 3 and 4, 2025, and will take place at the

Ibom LED Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Parts of the statement read: ‘Ibom Ignite is the premier youth leadership and entrepreneurship gathering, returning with a bold theme: ‘Ignite to Accelerate.’

‘This conference is set to transform youths in leadership and entrepreneurship in Akwa Ibom State. It will empower over 1,500 participants with the tools, networks, and insights needed to turn ideas into tangible impact.’

The statement also disclosed that registration had long been concluded both for the conference and the highly anticipated Ibom Ignite Entrepreneurship and Innovation Grant, a funding opportunity designed to propel startups and bold ideas into scalable ventures.

The event will feature seasoned speakers, fireside chats, intimate, thought-provoking conversations on leadership, innovation, and resilience, panel discussion sessions, as well as Innovation and Pitch Opportunities.

‘Ibom Ignite is not just an event but a movement of possibilities. To accelerate, you must first be ignited. Ibom Ignite 2025 is about sparking bold ideas and giving them the momentum to grow into solutions that transform communities.

‘The theme, Ignite to Accelerate, captures the essence of the 2025 edition: before acceleration can happen, there must first be ignition, a spark that fuels growth, vision, and transformation,’ the statement added.

The Federal High Court sitting in Warri has ordered the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to maintain the status quo in the ongoing legal dispute over the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy.

The order was given Friday in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, filed by lawyer, John Aikpokpo-Martins, against the IGP and the NPF.

NBA Publicity Secretary Bridget Edokwe said the court specifically directed the police to respect judicial processes and refrain from any action that could undermine the pending case.

Genre-bending singer and songwriter Nissi has released a powerful new track titled ‘Motivate’, featuring Nigerian rap heavyweight Olamide. The single dropped today, October 3, 2025, on all major streaming platforms.

Blending Afrobeats and hip-hop, Motivate carries a strong message of ambition, resilience, and determination. Nissi’s soulful vocals uplift and inspire, while Olamide delivers his signature lyrical energy, reminding listeners that setbacks are only stepping stones to greater comebacks.

With its infectious rhythm and empowering lyrics, the track is crafted to energize both the dancefloor and everyday hustles. The collaboration marks a milestone in Nissi’s artistic journey, bridging musical styles and fanbases for a record that feels both timely and motivational.

Motivate by Nissi featuring Olamide is available now for streaming and sharing worldwide.

Former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has showered encomiums on his long-time associate and political ally, Lere Olayinka, on his birthday.

He described him as a ‘man of wisdom, loyalty, and relevance in a heartfelt birthday tribute.

In a voice note made public in a WhatsApp group on Wednesday, Fayose praised Olayinka’s journey from modest beginnings in Okemesi to becoming a respected public figure and household name in Nigerian politics and media.

‘To a great man, young, diligent, submissive, and determined, whom God has raised from Okemesi. A man of stature and relevance. A man of wisdom who knows his onions,’ Fayose said.

The former governor, known for his outspoken political style, described Olayinka as a loyal aide and dependable defender who has consistently stood tall in the face of challenges.

‘From humble beginnings, you have expanded your coast, protected your name, and risen to become a respected figure, all to the glory of God,’ he added. ‘There is no regret in working with you.’

Fayose also highlighted Olayinka’s role as a shining representative of the Osoko Political Family, acknowledging his service, resilience, and faithfulness.

‘Your name has become a household name in Nigeria, and there is no going back,’ he said. ‘This is only the beginning. The future is indeed bright.’

He concluded the message with a personal and symbolic endorsement, referring to Olayinka as ‘my boy, my son, my follower, my brother, my defender,’ and extended warm birthday wishes on behalf of the entire Osoko Political Family Worldwide.

‘Happy birthday and many happy returns,’ Fayose said.

Lere Olayinka currently serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. He has long been a prominent media figure and is a political strategist, both in Ekiti State and across Nigeria’s political landscape.

After disqualification from Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), housemates are immediately evicted from the show and forfeit all prizes and privileges they won while in the house.

The housemates are required to leave the house without a farewell and the rest of the game continues without them.

Recently disqualified season 10 housemate, Faith Adewale got into a violent altercation with fellow contestant Sultana and shortly after, he was immediately removed from the house and forced to forfeit all prizes he had won.

The incident, which happened just days before the finale, served as a stark reminder of the show’s strict rules and the immediate consequences for any housemate who breaks them.

1. Forfeiture of winnings: According to the housemate contract, all gifts, money, and prizes won from sponsored tasks and games are taken away. For example, after his disqualification in Season 10, Faith was made to forfeit a car he had won in a sponsored task.

2. Mandatory immediate exit: Disqualified housemates are asked to pack their belongings and leave the house right away. Big Brother does not give them a chance to say goodbye to other contestants.

3. No return: Unlike evicted housemates, a disqualified housemate cannot return to the house or participate in any further activities related to the season.

The Long-term aftermath for disqualified housemates is often mixed, with potential career setbacks and public backlash, but some manage to rebuild their public image and find success.

1. Public opinion: Disqualified housemates often face intense criticism and negative judgment from the public and show fans on social media.

2. Career setbacks: Some housemates may initially face difficulty securing brand endorsements or other opportunities, as some brands may be hesitant to be associated with controversy.

3. Building a platform: Many disqualified housemates use the publicity from their controversial exit to launch or build their careers.

4. Post-show success: Notable examples like Tacha and Erica, who were disqualified in earlier seasons, have since achieved success in business and entertainment. They have become brand ambassadors and social media influencers with large followings.

The common reasons for disqualification are similar to those of other Big Brother franchises globally.

1. Physical violence: Any form of physical aggression toward a fellow housemate is grounds for immediate disqualification. Past housemates like Faith (Season 10), Beauty Tukura (Season 7), and Tacha (Season 4) were all removed for violent behavior.

2. Threatening behavior: Threats of violence or any behavior that makes other housemates feel unsafe is prohibited.

3. Aggressive and abusive language: Repeated use of abusive, insulting, or confrontational language can lead to disqualification, as seen in the case of Erica in Season 5.

4. Repeated rule-breaking: Some housemates receive strikes for minor rule infractions, such as whispering or failing to use their microphone properly. Accumulating multiple strikes can also result in disqualification.

Popular beauty queen and model, Nwaoma Ukachukwu, has expressed deep concerns over the alarming rise of poverty in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, stressing that children remain the most vulnerable victims.

In a statement to the media on Friday, Nwaoma warned that if the trend continues unchecked, it could trigger an unprecedented uprising among children.

‘I see children crying across different states in the country. I see them carrying stones and knives in revolt. These children are hungry and angry. This is a word of caution to our government and those in leadership positions across Africa and Nigeria. Something must be done now,’ she said.

While acknowledging the looming danger, Nwaoma stressed that solutions are within reach if urgent steps are taken to ease the burden on vulnerable children.

According to her, poverty in Africa and Nigeria has become a ticking time bomb, especially because it directly threatens the future of young people.

‘The future of Africa and Nigeria lies in the hands of our children. If, for any reason-whether through neglect or the weaponization of poverty for political gain-these children are abandoned on the streets, then Africa should brace itself for a shocking revolt that could shake the continent to its core.

‘I therefore caution that urgent action must be taken. Every child deserves not just to live, but to have access to the best life possible.’

Speaking further, she noted that her foundation has toured different parts of Africa and witnessed firsthand the painful realities of children trapped in poverty.

‘This is why we have now mobilised and empowered vulnerable children in Owerri, Imo State. Their school fees for the year have been cleared,’ she added.

Nwaoma emphasised that beyond the efforts of her foundation, government must play a decisive role by providing affordable schools, quality healthcare, decent housing, and an enabling environment for children to thrive.

She concluded that only through such interventions can the growing divide between the children of the rich and the poor be bridged.

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has said that nearly all depositors in Nigeria’s financial system are adequately protected under its enhanced coverage framework.

Speaking at the Corporation’s Special Day at the ongoing Abuja International Trade Fair on Thursday, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of NDIC, Mr. Thompson Oludare Sunday, disclosed that 98.98 per cent of depositors in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), 99.27 per cent in Microfinance Banks (MFBs), 99.34 per cent in Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs), and 99.99 per cent in Payment Service Banks (PSBs) are fully covered.

According to him, the expansion in coverage was achieved through the upward review of the maximum deposit insurance limit across various bank categories.

‘Currently, the NDIC insures depositors of Deposit Money Banks, Mobile Money Operators, and Non-Interest Banks up to a coverage limit of five million naira,’ Sunday said. ‘Depositors of Payment Service Banks, Microfinance Banks, and Primary Mortgage Banks are insured up to two million naira.

This provides stronger assurance to millions of Nigerians that their savings are safe.’

The NDIC boss cautioned Nigerians to be wary of fraudulent financial schemes warning that ‘It is important for Nigerians to remain vigilant against Ponzi schemes and other fraudulent investment platforms. Always ensure your funds are placed only in Central Bank of Nigeria licensed banks, all of which are covered by deposit insurance provided by the NDIC. This vigilance is crucial to protecting your hard-earned savings,’ he said.

He explained that in the event of bank failure, depositors with funds above the insured limit first receive an initial payout up to the maximum coverage, while balances above that amount are settled through liquidation dividends.

‘Liquidation dividends refer to payouts made to depositors and creditors from proceeds generated from the sale of a failed bank’s assets and recovered debts,’ he noted. ‘These are paid on a pro-rata basis, meaning depositors receive a proportionate share of the recovered funds relative to their outstanding balances beyond the insured limit.’

Citing a recent case, Sunday referenced the revocation of Heritage Bank’s license on June 3, 2024. He said NDIC promptly reimbursed insured depositors using the Bank Verification Number (BVN) in partnership with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) to identify alternate accounts for payment.

‘Depositors with sums exceeding five million naira were first paid up to the insured amount, and liquidation dividends are being paid subsequently from recovered assets and debts,’ he explained. ‘The first tranche of liquidation dividends commenced on April 25, 2025, and payments continue as the Corporation realises asset sales and debt recoveries. This approach demonstrates NDIC’s effectiveness in ensuring comprehensive depositor protection and financial stability.’

Earlier, the President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chief Emeka Obegolu, represented by Sir Agaba Idu Jideani, said the theme of this year’s trade fair – Sustainability, Consumption, Incentives, and Taxation – reflects the need to build resilient institutions and inclusive economic growth.

‘We are pleased to note the alignment between this theme and the mandates of NDIC, which provides a safety net for depositors, contributes to financial system stability, and supports confidence in our banking sector,’ Obegolu said. ‘The Corporation’s four broad mandates – Deposit Guarantee, Banking Supervision, Pension Resolution, and Banking Regulation – are fundamental pillars of Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.’

He said NDIC’s role is critical for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as it ensures access to stable financial services and fosters confidence in investment.

‘By extending deposit insurance coverage beyond deposit money banks to include microfinance banks, mortgage banks, non-interest banks, payment service banks, and mobile money operators, NDIC has shown responsiveness to the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s financial landscape,’ he added. ‘These interventions not only protect depositors but also create a more enabled environment for SMEs and entrepreneurs to participate confidently in the economy.’

The ACCI president also called for stronger recognition of women in enterprise. ‘At the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, we have established a gender policy and introduced a national definition of women-owned businesses, which we are advocating for widespread adoption. If we accept that women make up at least half of the population, then recognising and strengthening their capacity in business is not only sensible but essential for national growth,’ he said.