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Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, intensified their preparations in Morocco ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which kicks off on October 17.

According to the team’s Media Officer, Erenayo Doki, the girls had an intense training session on Thursday, focusing on corner kicks, free kicks, positioning, and finishing drills as part of their tactical refinement before the global showpiece.

The Flamingos are set to test their readiness in an international friendly against New Zealand scheduled for today at the Lanuria Mohammedia Stadium, with kick-off at 8 p.m. local time, same as in Nigeria. The encounter will be followed by a second warm-up match against Paraguay four days later – their final test before the team moves to Rabat, venue of their group-stage matches.

Doki noted that the camp atmosphere remains vibrant and positive, with high energy, sharp focus, and smiles all around as the players work hard to perfect set-piece routines and team cohesion.

Nigeria have been drawn in Group D of the World Cup alongside Canada, France, and Samoa, a tough pool that promises thrilling contests as the Flamingos aim to surpass their previous performances on the world stage.

The friendly duels in Morocco will provide the coaching crew with an opportunity to assess combinations and tactical adjustments before the curtain rises on the tournament.

The Union of Campus Journalists, University of Ibadan (UCJ UI) is set to decorate Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso as one of its distinguished patron.

The investiture will take place at the Union’s 5-in-1 event, scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025 at the First Bank Building, Faculty of Agriculture by 9:00 a.m.

Omotosho, a veteran journalist, columnist and former Editor at The Nation Newspaper will join the Publisher of Premium Times and Chief Executive Officer, Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, Dapo Olorunyomi on the list of the Union’s distinguished patrons.

Over the years, UCJ UI has maintained excellence as a leading platform for nurturing ethical storytellers and promoting journalistic excellence on campus and beyond.

According to the President of UCJ UI, Olanshile Ogunrinu, the 5-in-1 event will feature the following: Campus Journalism Summit 2.0 themed ‘From Campus to Newsroom: Sustaining Truth, Freedom, and Innovation in the Age of AI,’ the Professor Francis Egbokhare Inter-Press Debate, the Famous Five Awards (FFA), Induction Ceremony, and Magazine Launch.

Ogunrinu noted that the event will bring together accomplished media professionals, experts, industry leaders for meaningful engagement, exchange, collaboration, and knowledge sharing with young campus journalists.

According to Ogunrinu, the Famous Five Awards themed: ‘Echoes of Impact,’ will feature five distinguished individuals who will be honoured for their outstanding contributions to entertainment, academics, journalism, politics, and entrepreneurship.

Media Award: Mr. Babatunde Akintunde – Executive Director, Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)

Entertainment Award: Mr. Dolapo Amusat – founder of WeTalkSound

Politics Award: Hon. Seun Fakorede – Former Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Oyo State

Entrepreneurship Award: Amb. Taiwo Ailogwehme – Social and Youth Coordinator for the Fugar America Foundation

Academic Award: Prof. Saheed Aderinto – Winner, Dan David Prize and Professor of History and African Diaspora Studies at Florida International University.

The event will also feature the annual Induction Ceremony to formally welcome newly admitted members of the Union. This year’s ceremony is themed ‘Voices of Truth: Raising a New Generation of Accountable Storytellers.’

Also, the winner of the fifth edition of the Sunday Oguntola Essay Competition, themed ‘Tribe, Tongue, and Territory: Can Nigeria Truly Overcome Its Identity Crisis?’ will be announced during the ceremony.

The event will also include the launch of the latest edition of Campus Pulse magazine, themed: ‘Education That Educates: Raising Thinkers in a System Designed for Survival.’

Ogunrinu described the joint event as: ‘A landmark celebration of intellectual engagement, professional development, and excellence within the campus media community.’

He said, ‘This is one event the entire University community should look forward to. From thought-provoking keynote speeches to engaging panel sessions, it promises to be an intellectually stimulating experience.

‘Every student, even beyond campus journalists should make it a point to attend.’

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has called on Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to produce the fleeing Commandant of the Osun Amotekun Corps, Isaac Omoyele, in connection with the alleged killings carried out by his operatives in Akinlalu community.

In a statement issued by the party’s Osun State Chairman, Hon. Adewale Adebayo, the APM warned that the governor must not obstruct the efforts of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to ensure justice for the slain victims.

He described it as disturbing that Governor Adeleke has remained silent while members of a state security outfit under his administration are allegedly involved in acts of violence against the very residents he swore to protect.

‘Omoyele had been invited by the police after his corps killed about 10 people in Osun community market square and tagged them bandits. Instead of honoring the police invite, the police claimed that he staged his assassination attempt to escape Justice.’

‘We learnt that since his script of staged assassination has been known, he has relocated to Government House to evade arrest and prosecution.

‘As a party, we urge Governor Ademola Adeleke to produce Omoyele for arrest and prosecution. This is the oath of office the governor sworn to protect.’

This week has been Customer Service Week across the world, and as always, it is a time to celebrate customers and appreciate those who serve them. At the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the celebration has been full of colour, excitement, and unity. From themed dress days to fun activities, staff across the country took time to appreciate the people who make their work meaningful, the taxpayers.

But beyond the glamour and celebration, this year’s Customer Service Week has given everyone at FIRS another reason to reflect on the kind of leadership the agency has been blessed with. Since Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, came on board, he has shown that leadership is not just about policy but about people, and when I say people, I mean the people of Nigeria. He has brought a human touch to tax administration and changed the way many Nigerians perceive the agency.

Today, FIRS is not just an agency collecting taxes across Nigeria; it is a people-driven institution that listens, understands, and responds. Through innovations such as the TaxProMax platform, electronic invoicing, and an active online presence, people and businesses can now file returns, make payments, or access information with ease.

Every transaction is secured and verifiable through a unique Invoice Reference Number and QR code, while taxpayers without internet access can conveniently use the *829# USSD code to retrieve their TIN, verify tax clearance certificates, locate nearby offices, or make quick inquiries. It is now easy for anyone to pay taxes or ask questions, as FIRS experts are always ready to assist through the website, social media, or call centers.

The Tax Boss is a man who knows his onions and leads with direction and purpose. FIRS has built a strong culture of courtesy and service excellence. Staff are reminded that taxpayers are partners in progress and that respect, fairness, and timely service are necessary to good governance.

This change has increased public trust and strengthened the agency’s reputation as a responsive institution. Today, if you ask ten Nigerians, nine will tell you they now understand taxes better and why they are important. We have never had it this good.

His calm confidence, intelligence, and people-first approach have changed the atmosphere within the Agency. Staff now take pride in serving, knowing that their work makes life easier for millions. Taxpayers, too, are beginning to see FIRS differently, not as a burden, but as an institution they can trust.

As this year’s Customer Service Week comes to an end, with the theme ‘Mission: Possible,’ Nigerians can agree that Dr. Zacch has made it more than just a theme; he has made it our reality. He has shown that change is possible in public service. He leads by example, puts people first, and ensures that FIRS has become a true model of what responsive governance should look like.

At the end of the day, Dr. Zacch is a tactical leader whose results speak louder than words. What he has built at FIRS tells its own story. It is a system that works, a team that serves, and a nation that believes again. Nigerians can now see that the mission is truly possible.

Happy Customer Service Week to the Tax Boss, the entire FIRS team, and the ever-supportive taxpayers across Nigeria. Together, we keep building a better country for everyone.

The family of the late General Mamman Jiya Vatsa has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting a state pardon to the former Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, describing the gesture as a long-awaited vindication of his innocence.

The Council of State, on Thursday, approved the presidential prerogative of mercy for 175 persons across various categories, including the late General Vatsa.

The approval followed a presentation by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who conveyed President Tinubu’s recommendations based on the report of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.

General Vatsa was executed in 1986, alongside nine other military officers, for an alleged coup plot against the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.

In a statement issued in Minna on Friday, the family’s spokesperson, Jonathan Vatsa – a former Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) – said the presidential pardon has brought immense relief and joy to the family after 39 years of sorrow.

He described the decision as an act of statesmanship that has ‘wiped away the tears of the family’ and restored hope to the Gulu-Vatsa community in Lapai Local Government Area and the entire Niger State.

‘Today is the happiest moment in the life of our family after 39 years of grief following the killing of our father, brother, and uncle. Though nothing can bring him back, we are consoled by President Tinubu’s compassion. He has written his name in gold, and history will forever remember him,’ Vatsa stated.

He maintained that the alleged coup was a setup, claiming that the trial was ‘stage-managed’ to eliminate General Vatsa out of envy and rivalry. He recalled that the late General Domkat Bali once admitted in an interview that the evidence against Vatsa was weak and that his execution was unjustified.

‘The family still maintains that the late Vatsa was innocent of the coup. Justice can be delayed but not denied, and truth never expires,’ he said.

While expressing gratitude to President Tinubu, Vatsa lamented that the late General’s wife and some of his children did not live to witness the vindication, but thanked God that some of his children and grandchildren are alive to see this long-awaited moment.

Rotary Club of Egbe in Lagos State has inaugurated a borehole project in Bolorunpelu, Ikotun, to alleviate the area’s water scarcity and enhance access to clean water.

The project, executed under the President, Nneka Anaemena, was inaugurated during the visit of the District Governor of Rotary International District 9111, Henry Akinyele, at Egbe Road, Ejigbo.

Anaemena said the initiative was conceived following a needs assessment by the club in communities and schools.

She said the survey showed that Bolorunpelu had no functional water source, leaving residents dependent on vendors.

‘We discovered this community did not have good water; in fact, they had no water because the well they had dried up. The only way they got water was by paying Mallams to fetch water for them. So, we concluded that they needed a borehole in Bolorunpelu,’ Anaemena said.

She added that the club had taken measures to ensure sustainability of the project by handing it over to the community’s Baale, for proper management and maintenance.

‘We wanted a project that would last long in the community. The people are excited about it, and we are happy to see their joy,’ she added.

The Baale of Bolorunpelu, High Chief Sanni Lateef Babatunde (Ogunyomi Asambe I), expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club of Egbe for what he described as a compassionate and impactful intervention.

‘We thank Rotary for this project. It will go a long way in easing our water challenges and improving our quality of life,’ the Baale stated.

In his address, District Governor Akinyele commended the Rotary Club of Egbe for its commitment to community service and for implementing projects that address pressing social needs. He reiterated Rotary’s mission of advancing sustainable development and improving living conditions across communities.

The event also featured economic empowerment activities aimed at supporting residents’ livelihoods, underscoring Rotary’s dedication to fostering community growth through humanitarian initiatives.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned the Senate against hastily confirming the nomination of Prof. Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing that the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process depends on how the screening is conducted.

Speaking shortly after inaugurating the Venue Sub-Committee for the party’s upcoming Ibadan elective convention, PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said both Nigerians and the international community are watching closely to see whether the Senate will conduct a transparent and merit-based confirmation process.

He urged lawmakers to resist the temptation of ‘rubber-stamping’ the nomination, warning that a politically motivated or rushed approval could further erode public confidence in the electoral system already weakened by controversies surrounding the 2023 general elections.

Ologunagba said, ‘We recognise the constitutional process that allows the President to nominate through the Council of State. The next step is for the Senate to conduct a thorough confirmation hearing on behalf of the Nigerian people.’

Reiterating the PDP’s stance on strengthening democratic institutions, he added that when institutions function effectively, ‘it matters little who heads them because the system ensures accountability.’

He warned that another era of technical glitches and inconclusive elections could deepen voter disillusionment and threaten democratic stability.

The PDP spokesman also dismissed rumours of defection by some of its governors, describing them as distractions from the party’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and reposition itself ahead of the Ibadan convention.

He said, ‘If the nominee is confirmed, he must recognise that he carries a heavy responsibility for democracy’s future in this country. Nigerians, and indeed the world, are watching. There can be no repeat of the glitches, inconclusive elections, and excuses of the past.

‘Democracy thrives when the process of producing leaders is transparent, credible, and trusted by the people. That legitimacy is what makes the government responsive to its citizens. We therefore hope the Senate will do justice to this nomination in the interest of democracy and good governance’.

Ologunagba assured of PDP’s internal readiness and adherence to due process as it prepares for its 2025 Elective National Convention, which he said is a test of the party’s ability to present itself as a disciplined and credible alternative.

‘We are here today to present our plans and to let you know that the party is ready. The PDP is fully prepared, and we are moving ahead, embracing digital systems and innovation. Nigerians are excited because they know the PDP remains the only hope for this country,’ he said.

While dismissing speculation about defections and internal wrangling, Olugunagba described such reports as ‘manufactured distractions’ orchestrated to weaken the opposition’s momentum.

‘Talks about defections are distractions. Many of those alleged defections are driven by coercion, intimidation, and inducement, a hallmark of the APC’s style of politics. But Nigerians have not defected from hunger, insecurity, or hardship. They seek relief, and the PDP represents hope and prosperity based on our record of performance,’ he explained.

He said the PDP’s preparations are not only in line with INEC’s guidelines but also designed to demonstrate that the party can model the very transparency it demands of others, saying, ‘Our national convention is on course.

‘Every step we have taken has been deliberate and in line with our constitution. INEC, as our regulator, has been invited to all major meetings and is aware of every stage of the process. So, any attempt to challenge our process in court will not hold water.

‘The convention train is already in motion-it’s in Ibadan, and no force can stop it. We are going to have one of the most successful and well-organised conventions in Nigeria’s political history.’

Speaking during the inauguration, Chairman of the Venue sub-committee and Deputy Governor of Oyo state, Adebayo Lawal, spoke of discipline and diligence, describing the committee as the backbone of the convention’s success.

‘From my experience in such assignments, I must appeal for minimal movement during our sessions. The success or otherwise of the convention depends greatly on the work of the Venue Committee. If the venue is properly organised, other sub-committees will be able to carry out their duties effectively because we provide the platform upon which others will operate.

‘The PDP cannot afford to fail by any standard or means. With the benefit of our party’s antecedents, we can get it right and once again take our place at the forefront of Nigerian politics. The PDP has done it before and can do it again.’

Work has commenced on the Calabar axis of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project.

There is ongoing construction activity stretching through the Awi forest in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The site, located off the Calabar-Ikom expressway near Odukpani junction, bears twin signposts announcing the project under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works and executed by HITECH Construction Company Limited.

The project area presents a challenging mix of topography-dense forests, hilly terrains, rocky formations, and swampy stretches.

Large trees have been felled and mangrove vegetation cleared to make way for the new road corridor linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

Many heavy-duty machines, including excavators, bulldozers, and swamp buggies, are at work across the site, filling the air with the constant hum of engines and the rhythmic clatter of construction.

Despite the difficult landscape, engineers and workers have pressed on, carving through rock and levelling hills to prepare the ground for the concrete pavement.

When our reporter visited the site, about five kilometres of the roadbed had been graded and readied for base installation.

It was also observed that earthworks extend deep into the forest, where teams are clearing wider stretches to shape the highway alignment.

Workers at the site say operations continue daily despite the rainy season posing a major challenge.

One worker explained: ‘The terrain is difficult, but progress is steady.

‘The teams, including expatriate engineers, resume each morning accompanied by security personnel and work until evening.’

The contrast between this section and the Lagos axis of the highway is evident in the pace of progress.

While the Lagos side advances faster on flat terrain, the Calabar end moves more slowly due to its rugged landscape.

Commissioner for Works in Cross River State, Ankpo Pius Edet, told doubters that the project is ongoing at point 001 in Cross River.

He described it as evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Cross River.

Edet said President Tinubu had demonstrated his creative mind by opening up an area that had no road before.

On construction difficulties, he said: ‘These challenges will affect the timeframe of the project.

‘These challenges are natural and inevitable. But they are pushing.

‘People should understand the differences in terrain.

‘The contractor is also complying with the local content aspect of the project because our people are participating in the project.

‘The people of Cross River are also participating in the project.’

‘Some are supplying sand, and others are artisans.

‘HITECH has been here for over 20 years, so they understand the terrain.’

A HITECH official, who identified himself simply as Engr. Elias told our reporter: ‘We have gone far on the project.

‘If you come in a few weeks, you will see more.’

In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl-Child, Priceless Virtues International hosted the Lagos International Day of the Girl-Child Conference on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church, Ikeja. The event brought together schoolgirls from across Lagos to be inspired, educated, and empowered to embrace their potential and live purpose-driven lives.

Themed ‘Reach for the Stars,’ the event focused on helping young girls rise above social limitations, distractions, and self-doubt.

Convener and Founder, Priceless Virtues International, Oluwatobi Ola-Adetimole, emphasised the importance of resilience and intentional living.

‘We are here to tell girls that it is possible to become their dreams, reaching for the stars may seem impossible, but it is doable. I once stood where they are-facing disappointments and uncertainty-but I turned my challenges into stepping stones.’

The conference featured a panel session where invited guests and female professionals from diverse fields shared personal experiences of overcoming setbacks to fulfill their dreams.

Keynote speaker Amarachi Ubani, Head of the Foreign Desk at Channels Television, emphasized the importance of documenting goals and staying committed to one’s purpose.

‘At age 10, I wrote in my diary that I would become a journalist and travel the world, now, over 30 years later, I see that dream fulfilled, that early act of journaling kept me aligned with my purpose, even when life got difficult,’ she said.

Ubani encouraged the girls to embrace self-discovery, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and seek divine direction.

She added, ‘Sometimes children have to raise themselves, because sometimes our parents, yes, they want the best for you, but they might not really be directing you in the way that you should go, so that’s why you need to know your strengths and you need to know your weaknesses.

And then you need to trust God to lead you in those directions. And then also pray that God will bring the people in your life that you need to help you to get to where you need to go to. It’s very important, and you pray to God to ask to bring the people in your life because there will be lots of distractions along the way.’

In a self elating session on sexual purity, Victoria Bamigbola, Coordinator of the Sexual Purity Academy – Lagos Community, challenged the girls to uphold purity as a form of self-respect and purpose preservation.

She said, ‘Sexual purity is not old-fashioned-it’s wisdom, when you choose purity, you protect your future. It’s not just about saying ‘no’ to pressure; it’s about saying ‘yes’ to your value and your destiny.’

She emphasized that purity is not merely a rule to follow, but a mindset that fosters dignity, focus, and long-term success.

Adding a fun and intellectually engaging twist to the event, the conference also featured a Spelling Bee Competition, where participating girls showcased their academic excellence. Winners, Imola Comprehensive High School and Legacy Villa schools received prizes as a reward for their effort and to further motivate a culture of excellence among peers.

Ola-Adetimole closed the conference with a compelling reminder, saying, ‘If you don’t stay focused, you’ll still grow old. But what story will you tell when you do? Choose now to live intentionally so you can inspire others with your journey in the future.’

Lekoil Nigeria Limited has attributed the success of the new oil export terminal to the favourable environment provided by the pro-business policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Chief Executive Officer, Lekoil Nigeria Limited, Lekan Akinyanmi said the commissioning of the Otakikpo Onshore Crude Oil Export Terminal, through which Lekoil evacuates crude oil from the Otakikpo field, marked a defining chapter in the company’s journey as a leading independent oil and gas company in Nigeria.

The strategic export channel was commissioned by President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri.

According to him, the commissioning of the strategic export channel was in line with ongoing reforms to expand Nigeria’s production capacity towards Nigeria’s economic development.

‘The Otakikpo Onshore Crude Oil Export Terminal is not just infrastructure; it is a symbol of progress, credibility, and the determination of indigenous producers to deliver value on a global stage,’ Akinyanmi said.

He also commended the leadership of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for creating an enabling environment.

He said the commissioning of the terminal represented a validation of the company’s commitment to consistency and building lasting value.

‘The commissioning of the Otakikpo Onshore Crude Oil Export Terminal is a proud moment for Lekoil. It validates our commitment to building lasting value as an indigenous producer, delivering our crude to the market reliably while supporting our host communities and Nigeria’s broader energy ambitions. This milestone is a clear indication that Lekoil represents resilience, responsibility, and results,’ Akinyanmi said.

He pointed out that Lekoil, along with Green Energy International Limited, its joint venture partner on the Otakikpo field (PML 11), has consistently demonstrated that indigenous oil and gas companies can operate at world-class standards, unlock resources, advance community development, and contribute to national production growth.

‘With the commissioning of the terminal, Lekoil can now maximise the potential of Otakikpo, widely regarded as a prolific area for oil and gas nestled in the southeastern part of the Niger Delta basin, and ensure secure, efficient evacuation and reinforce its reputation as a reliable supplier of Nigerian crude.

‘This achievement underscores Lekoil’s place as a trusted, responsible operator with a long-term commitment to Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth and its vision: to be the world’s leading exploration and production company focused on Africa. We celebrate this historic commissioning as a major step in Lekoil’s growth story, one that confirms our standing as a bonafide independent producer with the capacity, the partnerships, and the will to deliver,’ Akinyanmi said.