Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

Sir: Nigeria’s uniqueness as a nation lies in its entity and corperativeness, despite years of threatened balkanization by forces of dismemberment. The civil war years (1967-1970) remained a singular episode that buffeted its zeal for survival almost beyond its wits end, but God remained faithful and rather than bring the nation to its knees, the nation once again sprang up to its feet.

The June 12 presidential election annulment topsy-turvy was also an exercise in brinkmanship, but God saved the nation, it also wriggled out of what someone described as a national political catastrophy unleashed on her by an unfeeling and politically heartless leader.

Every four year’s general election to choose a new government has been likened to a war time, because of the large-scale destruction often accompanied by disloyal political contenders who are always bent on winning even when they knew their stakes were ridiculously low, and unabashedly out of political reality, yet God’s faithfulness continue to save the nation out of self-destruction.

The second uniqueness of our situation as a nation these past 65 years is the political stability that the country has recorded since 1999 to date. Many African countries are still under the yoke of military rule with its concomitant abrasiveness and loss of freedom and fundamental human rights.

Despite the lack of popularity of military rule in world politics, a horde of some African countries are still basking in such derisive euphoria with all its limitations in growth and development. But Nigeria has matured politically these past 25 years of civil rule to appreciate the role of uninterrupted democracy in national development.

Given the resolve of the present APC government, one can savely say that the country is on the threshold of total recovery of its past lost grounds.

A lot can still be achieved between now and 2027 if all drummers of diversionary politics will stop their beats and join all hands with the president to pilot the affairs of the country so that the policies and advocacies of the government for the over-all development of the country can be achieved.

Over time the excuse has been the problem of good leadership but in the past couple of years, the leadership has shown unparalleled commitment; with good followers to complement the zeal of the present crop of leadership, Nigeria will soon experience the socio-economic recovery and financial wellness that they have long advocated for.

At 65, even though not yet entirely Uhuru, there is ray of hope and greater hope at the end of the tunnel. The die is no longer cast any more. Rather, the hope is now ever more.

Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other stakeholders in the built environment, have called for mutual respect and cooperation between government enforcement officers and members of the public.

Speaking at the 2025 Stakeholders’ Engagement on Physical Planning, themed ‘Planning Permit: The Rebirth’, organized by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) on Friday, the Governor stressed that harassment or assault of enforcement officials on duty is counterproductive and detrimental to the orderly growth of Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube, maintained that physical planning officers are carrying out statutory responsibilities in line with approved regulations and therefore deserve due courtesy and cooperation.

He cautioned residents against verbal or physical attacks on officials and urged aggrieved members of the public to channel complaints through established government platforms. ‘Civility, dialogue, and adherence to due process are the hallmarks of a functional society that seeks sustainable development,’ he said.

The governor further assured that the engagement reflected government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of both residents and officials in building a more resilient, well-planned Lagos.

In his goodwill message, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, emphasized that the administration is working tirelessly to bequeath a better Lagos to future generations.

He urged residents to uphold law and order, and treat government officials with the respect they deserve.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, explained that the forum was a follow-up to the 2024 Physical Planning Summit held at Eko Hotels and Suites, where stakeholders underscored the importance of public sensitization and engagement on physical planning.

Dr. Oluyinka assured that despite the frequent challenges faced by LASPPPA officials during enforcement, the government would not relent in ensuring that no physical development takes place in the state without necessary approvals.

Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Planning Matters, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, represented by the Permanent Secretary for Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, commended the General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinaike, and his team for their efforts.

He however lamented the poor attitude of some property owners and professionals toward planning laws, calling for a change in behavior.

‘Built professionals must discourage lawlessness by advising property owners appropriately and respecting their own professional boundaries,’ he said, urging the public not to view demolitions of illegal structures emotionally, but rather as actions taken in the collective interest of society.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Oba of Lagos, the Bajulaiye of Lagos, Chief Ayodele Oyekan, appealed for public support of government’s planning regulations.

He stressed that harassment of officers is unjust, considering they act strictly in line with the law. He encouraged aggrieved property owners to use complaint mechanisms or seek redress through the Lagos State House of Assembly, instead of resorting to self-help.

‘To live in Lagos, you must abide by the laws of the State,’ he emphasized.

Also speaking, former Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tpl. Toyin Ayinde, urged the government to streamline the operations of multiple agencies dealing with property owners by creating a one-stop centre for physical development matters.

He also highlighted political interference as a major bottleneck limiting LASPPPA’s efficiency and called for its minimization or outright removal.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, on yesterday’s celebration of his 63rd birthday.

The President described the celebrant as a consummate administrator and dedicated public servant.

In a statement in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined the Badaru family, friends, and associates in celebrating the former governor of Jigawa State.

Badaru, who was Jigawa State governor from 2015 to 2023, currently holds the traditional titles of Sardauna Ringin and Walin Jahun.

President Tinubu hailed him for his years of leadership, particularly his interventions in security, agriculture, and infrastructure while in office.

He offered prayers for the minister’s well-being, asking Almighty Allah to grant him many more years of good health and strength to continue serving the country.

‘President Tinubu commends the minister for his dedication to service, recalling his leadership in Jigawa State, where he led security, agriculture, and infrastructure interventions.

‘The President prays that God Almighty will grant the former governor more years of good health and strength,’ the statement said.

Super Falcons attacker, Gift Monday says her attention has shifted from her heroic of last weekend and now fully focused on Washington Spirits continental action against Gotham FC in the Concacaf Women’s Champions Cup tomorrow.

Monday also revealed that they also have San Diego Wave to slug it out this weekend in the league and cannot continue to dwell on her hat-trick of the past weekend.

The former FC Robo Queens striker etched her name into the history books on Sunday, scoring the fastest hat-trick from the start of a match in NWSL history to inspire Washington Spirit’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Houston Dash and book their place in the playoffs.

The 23-year-old forward struck three times inside the opening 36 minutes, underlining her reputation as one of the league’s most lethal finishers. She opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a calm finish past Abby Smith, doubled her tally three minutes later by pouncing on a rebound, and completed her treble with a deft strike from a Trinity Rodman assist.

Each goal was marked with Monday’s trademark bow-and-arrow celebration and dance routine, a gesture she explained carries a personal meaning.

‘Growing up, I didn’t have people who really believed in my potential,’ Monday said. ‘Each time I score, I shoot the arrow because I see myself more than how people see me – right there up in the sky among the stars.

‘I can’t continue dwelling on the goals I scored though I am thrilled about it. I am now more concerned about our upcoming games in the Champions Cup and the league.’

Her historic feat, assisted by U.S. internationals Rodman (two) and Croix Bethune (one), makes her only the second Spirit player after Crystal Dunn in 2015 to record a first-half hat-trick.

Signed earlier this year from UD Granadilla Tenerife in Spain, Monday has now netted eight goals in 19 appearances, keeping her firmly in the Golden Boot race alongside Orlando’s Barbra Banda and Chicago’s Ludmila.

The Spirit’s triumph was not only historic for Monday but also for the club, delivering their biggest-ever winning margin and stretching their unbeaten streak to 10 games – a new record.

Super Eagles attacker, Paul Onuachu has described his stunning bicycle-kick strike in Trabzonspor’s dramatic 4-3 victory over Fatih Karagmrk last weekend as one of the goals of the season.

The Nigeria international was the star of the seven-goal spectacle at the Atatrk Olympic Stadium, netting twice – first with a spectacular overhead kick and later from the penalty spot.

Speaking after the game, Onuachu expressed delight at both the win and his personal contribution.

‘First of all, I’d like to congratulate my teammates on the three points. I’m happy the team won, and even happier that I scored,’ he told Fanatik.

Reflecting on his wonder goal, the towering forward said it brought back memories of a previous strike.

‘I watched the goal again, and it reminded me of the one I scored against Konyaspor. Between the two, I’d say the Konyaspor goal was better. This one was purely instinctive – I had to decide quickly, and luckily it turned into a good shot and a good goal.’

Onuachu’s brace takes his tally to five goals in seven league appearances for Trabzonspor this season who are third with 14 points from seven games.

Trabzonspor hosts Kayserispor in their next Super Lig tie on Friday.

Support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has received a boost in Edo State, following inauguration of the Grassroots Mobilisation for 2027 tagged: ‘PBAT 4+4 Grassroots Mobilisation’.

The group said Tinubu’s economic reforms had shown promising results, with notable gains in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, foreign reserves, and infrastructural development.

Edo State Coordinator of the group, Abel Emokpae, who spoke after the inauguration in Benin City, said President Tinubu had earned citizens’ support by delivering dividends of democracy.

He noted that the Tinubu administration had shown that it had capacity to turn around economic downturn and make it profitable.

He said the group aimed to secure massive support for President Tinubu across all stratums, including the local government councils in Edo State.

Emokpae challenged Nigerians to rally behind the present administration, emphasising that continuity was crucial for sustaining progress.

He said: ‘This can lay a foundation for a brighter future for the youth, knowing that President Tinubu is not the father that forgets serious children’s ambitions. The leaders of this group will soon visit some states to encourage more grassroots mobilisation, preparatory to 2027 election and by special grace of God, volunteers across the state will be captured.’

Kwara United have promised to bounce back stronger after their elimination in the preliminary stage of the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup.

The Nigerian club slumped 0-1 at home to Ghanaian side Asante Kotoko on Sunday in Abeokuta, Ogun State to bow out on a 3-5 aggregate scoreline.

While apologising to their teeming supporters, fans, and other critical stakeholders for the continental ouster, the Harmony Boys pleaded for understanding as they plot their way back to reckoning.

Kwara needed an outright win to secure a place in the next round, but a lone strike by Hubert Gyalu in the 53rd minute sealed a 1-0 victory for the Porcupine Warriors in the return leg played at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena.

In a statement yesterday , Kwara chairman, Kumbi Titiloye, described the early exit as painful and regrettable, pleading with fans to forgive the team for they are determined to bounce back stronger.

Kwara United will now focus solely on the ongoing Nigeria top-flight for a chance to return to the continent with a home tie against Plateau United on Thursday.

The Flying Eagles were unlucky to lose 1-0 to Norway in their opening match of the 24th FIFA U20 World Cup finals on Monday despite dominating play and creating a hatful of chances, particularly in the second period.

Norway went ahead after they were awarded a contested penalty in the 9th minute, but the Flying Eagles fought hard to redeem things, only to be denied penalty awards on two occasions in the second half.

Kparobo Arierhi’s left-footed shot inside the box drifted just wide in the 47th minute, with the goalkeeper completely beaten, and in the 63rd minute, Tahir Maigana’s left-footed shot inside the box was stopped by the base of the upright.

The two-time silver medallists launched onslaught after onslaught against the Europeans, but Norway had too many players behind the ball in the box and foiled dozens of attempts.

In the 71st minute, the crowd rose to cheer the equalizer, but midfielder Nasiru Salihu’s rising shot from the right rose a little too high, beating the goalkeeper and the crossbar.

Seven minutes from time, the tireless Tahir Maigana cocked the trigger from afar, only to see his effort miss the target narrowly.

The Flying Eagles will take on Saudi Arabia in their second match of the competition on Thursday.

A popular preacher, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has congratulated Nigerians and President Bola Tinubu on the 65th independence anniversary.

He called on Nigerians to always make necessary sacrifices that would help the country to attain greatness.

Olu-Alo, who is the planter of of CAC Adamimogo, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain World-wide, also congratulated Ekiti people and Governor Biodun Oyebanji on the 24th year of the creation of Ekiti State.

The cleric in his goodwill message by his Personal Assistant, Hon. Deji Ogunbusuyi, said Nigeria remained one indivisible entity despite the political and ethnic forces differences of its people, urging Nigerians to continually pray and make concerted efforts to ensure the nation’s upliftment.

Olu-Alo, who described Nigerians as resilient people, said all hands must be on deck in building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation, adding that citizens must eschew divisive tendencies at this time that we need to stand and live together as brothers.

He urged all Nigerians to participate actively and constructively in the process of nation-building for the country to get over all her challenges.

While congratulating Ekiti people on the 29th anniversary of the creation of the State, he said a better and well-developed State should remain paramount in the hearts of the citizens.

‘I therefore call on the Ekitis, both at home and abroad, to support and join hands with the government in repositioning the state and ensure its all-round development of the State.

‘The task of rebuilding and repositioning the state is a collective effort and through our cooperation, a truly prosperous state would be built and we shall put it firmly on the path of honour and irreversible development,’ he stated.

He urged the people not to relent in praying for the both administrations to be able to make life better for the people.

The preacher appealed to all political parties and residents of Ekiti state to conduct themselves peacefully in their forthcoming parties governorship primary elections.

In a separate statement, the cleric also congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja on his recent coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Prophet Olu-Alo, who is founder of Adamimogo FM Nigeria and the owner of Adamimogo 105:1 FM, Ibadan in Oyo State and others in Southwest, said the momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the history of Ibadan’s traditional institution.

While also rejoicing with the monarch on his birthday celebration, the cleric said: ‘Your ascension to the throne is a testament to your leadership qualities and dedication to the well-being of your people. As a former Governor of Oyo State, you have demonstrated exceptional governance skills, and your experience will undoubtedly shape your reign as Olubadan.

‘I pray God will grant you wisdom and knowledge to lead and guide the people as well as giving you sound health as you embark on this new chapter. May your reign be marked by peace, prosperity, and the continued growth of Ibadanland’.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has inaugurated the committee for the screening of 2026 Hajj Tour Operators at the Hajj House in Abuja.

The committee comprises management workers of the commission alongside other key members, including representatives from the secretariat.

The commission’s Director of Administration, Alhaji Alidu Shutti, who represented the Chairman at the event, described the inauguration as an important milestone in preparations for the Hajj operation.

He expressed the commission’s confidence in the competence and capacity of the committee members to deliver on the crucial assignment.

Shutti urged the committee to thoroughly scrutinise all documents submitted by intending Hajj Tour Operators seeking licences for the 2026 exercise, ensuring validity, accuracy, and compliance with international best practices.

He directed the committee to recommend slot allocations only to qualified and competent operators.

‘You are expected to submit your recommendations to the leadership of the commission for approval or otherwise, and produce a comprehensive report of your findings at the end of the exercise,’ Shutti said.

The director reminded the committee of the urgency of their task, stressing that the assignment must be completed within one week in line with the deadline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for the 2026 operations.