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As Nigeria gears up for the next general election, a heated debate is brewing. Supporters of former President Goodluck Jonathan are rallying behind his potential return to the presidency, citing his experience and leadership skills.

However, others are raising constitutional concerns, arguing that a third term would be barred by the country’s laws. The debate is sparking intense discussions across the nation, with legal experts, politicians, and ordinary citizens weighing in on the matter. As the country navigates this complex issue, questions about the rule of law, political precedent, and the will of the people are coming to the fore.

Can Goodluck Jonathan’s supporters convince the nation that he’s the right leader for the job, or will the constitutional concerns prevail? The answer remains to be seen, but one thing is certain this debate will continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape in the months to come.’

The number of those who were involved in a boat tragedy in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State has risen to 36.

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) confirmed this in an update on Wednesday night.

The agency said 40 persons were rescued from the ill fated boat.

The boat capsized at the bank of the river around Akpu and Odumomo settlements.

It was reportedly carrying passengers from riverine communities in the areas to Ilushi in Edo state.

Majority of the passengers include, children, women and some mourners who came for burial ceremony in the town and were on their way back to Ilushi.

NIWA’s Head of Idah station in the flank of the state , Williams Isaac, disclosed the latest update to NTA’s ‘News Xtra’.

He said the most affected people were from Onugwa and other riverine communities in Ibaji Local Government Area .

Isaac added further that the rescue efforts are still ongoing, stressing that the journey turned tragic when the boat conveying about 80 passengers capsized midway to its destination.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had expressed shock over the accident, directing all relevant agencies to swing into action on rescue operation.

The Governor further enjoined the would -be travellers by river to adopt simple safety measures, as he commiserated the families of the victims and prayed to God to grant the deceased external rest.

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), has described the restoration and commissioning of the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, as a major boost to Nigeria’s creative economy.

AFRIMA commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Bankers’ Committee for spearheading the revamp of the iconic cultural landmark, originally opened in 1976. The restoration project, undertaken by the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee as part of their corporate social responsibility, was commissioned during Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary celebrations.

Speaking on the development, AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mike Dada, said the rebirth of the theatre represents not only the revival of a historic edifice but also renewed confidence in Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries.

‘The National Arts Theatre has played a crucial role in nurturing African creativity, serving for decades as a hub for music, theatre, film and cultural festivals. Its revival speaks volumes about Nigeria’s vision and the dedication of stakeholders like the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee to supporting the creative economy. This is not just a building restored, but a renewal of cultural confidence and an investment in future generations of Nigerian and African talent,’ Dada said.

Beyond the theatre, AFRIMA used the occasion to congratulate Nigeria on its 65th independence anniversary, commending the country’s resilience and leadership in shaping Africa’s music, film, fashion and digital culture.

‘On behalf of the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Nigeria as the country marks 65 years of independence. Nigeria remains a vital partner to AFRIMA and a key pillar of Africa’s cultural identity. Its creative energy continues to inspire not just the continent but the world,’ he added.

Dada also highlighted Nigeria’s role as host of the 9th AFRIMA, noting that the awards have amplified African music on the global stage while promoting unity across the continent.

AFRIMA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing African music, nurturing young talent, and using culture as a tool for continental development and pride.

The 9th AFRIMA Awards is being organised in partnership with the AUC, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and Lagos State as the official host city.

Manchester United boss Rúben Amorim has urged his players to raise their performance levels if they are to turn the club’s fortunes around.

The Portuguese manager is under heavy scrutiny following United’s poor start to the season, which has seen them collect only two wins, one draw, and three defeats from their opening six Premier League fixtures.

In an interview with TNT, Amorim expressed confidence that Matheus Cunha can play a key role in inspiring the Red Devils to a revival.

‘We have a lot of players that they were here for many years, and we are struggling so that is always in your mind.

‘It’s not just the leaders, we need leaders, but sometimes what I’m thinking is we miss some crazy guys, you know?’

‘The guys, I think Cunha is a little bit like that. He’s a guy that is a good guy, but he doesn’t care who you are.

‘He can play wherever, and he will go with the ball. This kind of feeling, we need that. Harry Maguire was captain, he played national team, but you can feel it sometimes that when things are going wrong, we go down.

‘No matter if it’s Bruno or Harry, and that is in the past, so we need to live in the future.’

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged Nigerians to hold fast to optimism and unity in the face of present challenges, assuring that the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu Administration and citizens’ huge sacrifices would ultimately pay off if the nation stayed the course.

Mbah said that while the anniversary may understandably be low-key, it did not obviate Nigeria’s giant strides as an independent nation.

These were contained in his message to Nigerians in the early hours of Wednesday to mark the nation’s 65th independence anniversary. In the message, which he personally signed, the governor congratulated the citizens on ‘the proud milestone.’

‘At 65, our independence is a reminder of what we can achieve as a people when we are united. It is also a reminder that progress demands sacrifice, and that tomorrow is shaped by the choices we make today.

‘The commemoration of our 65th independence anniversary may understandably be low-key, but the significance of the strides we have made as a nation is by no means underwhelming.

‘Those strides are manifest in the remarkable achievements we have recorded across key sectors. They reflect as well in the bold reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that have brought stability to the Nigerian economy. The sacrifices may be huge today, but there is no doubt that the end will vindicate the decisions if we stay the course.

‘As we raise our flags today, let us renew our covenant to Nigeria; let us embrace the spirit of unity, and let us uphold the optimism that has carried us this far,’ he said.

Mbah, while also recommitting to his administration’s inclusive development model that leaves no one behind, maintained that Enugu State, under his watch, was on the path of turnaround and exponential economic growth.

‘In Enugu State, this Independence Day is a fitting occasion to recommit to our pledge to make inclusion the cornerstone of government policy; to create wealth and deploy it for the benefit of everyone in Enugu State. We are staying the course. And no one will be left behind.

‘From moribund assets roaring back to life, to Ndi Enugu enjoying a resounding sense of security of lives and property, our children transitioning to 260 Smart Green Schools, our rural communities accessing modern healthcare courtesy of our completed or ongoing 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, Ndi Enugu commuting conveniently and affordably via our modern transport system and infrastructure, Enugu State is no doubt on the pathway to assured turnaround and exponential economic growth,’ he added.

Wives of soldiers detained for committing various offences in Borno State have pleaded with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and military authorities to pardon their husbands.

Appealing for mercy, the leader of the group, Rose Emmanuel David, who spoke on behalf of 30 other women, said, ‘If Boko Haram terrorists can be pardoned, why not our husbands?’

She noted that the detention of their husbands at the 7 Division Military Police Facility has put them under emotional stress and financial hardships.

‘Some of our husbands were detained for one year and eight months; the children born after them have grown up without knowing their fathers.

‘Many of us are faced with serious financial hardships. I’m personally surviving the situation by frying bean cake (Akara) for sale.

It’s very difficult for us to adapt to the new situation,’ she said.

She pleaded with the president to find a place in his heart to forgive their husband in the spirit of Nigeria at 65 celebrations.

‘We acknowledge their mistakes, they have deeply reflected, and now seek a second chance to serve their country with renewed loyalty.

‘We respectfully call on His Excellency, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to grant them a presidential pardon.’

‘We also appeal to the National Assembly, the Executive Governor of Borno State, and all Nigerians of goodwill to support this plea.

‘It is important to remember that amnesty has been extended to repentant insurgents and bandits who once raised arms against the state.

‘These soldiers are Nigerians too, men who once risked their lives to defend our people and preserve our nation. They deserve the same mercy, so they can once again fight for peace, unity, and security,’ she said.

Last week, Special Court Martial (SCM) convened by the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 1 Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, has slammed 2 Senior Non-commissioned Officers and 2 Non-Commissioned Officers for Arms/Ammunition racketeering as well as Aiding and Abetting the Enemy.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) yesterday said aviation in Nigeria directly employs 39,500 people, contributing $2.5 billion, which represents 0.7% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The association also observed that Europe is the largest international market for passenger flows from Nigeria, followed by Africa and North America, saying the international air traffic accounted for 23% of total origin-destination (O-D) departures for Nigeria in 2023, equivalent to 2.1 million passenger departures.

This was contained in the report released by IATA on the Value of Air Transport to Nigeria’s economy. The report is based on data collected in 2023/24.

Daily Trust reports that the $2.5bn contribution is an improvement on the previous $1.7bn as of 2023 even though the sector has continued to contract in the GDP index.

IATA which is the clearing house for over 300 global airlines stated that 195,700 tonnes of air cargo were transported through airports in Nigeria in 2023, supporting the country’s total import and export volumes.

IATA statistics indicated that almost 780,700 passengers departed from Nigeria to a country in Europe (38% of the total), 485,400 to another country in Africa (23% of the total), and 373,000 to North America (18% of the total).

The report stated that there are different ways of measuring air transport’s performance in the economy including the number of jobs and the contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) generated by the aviation sector, including airlines, airport operators and onsite businesses, air navigation service providers (ANSPs), and manufacturers (‘direct’ aviation players).

‘In Nigeria, 39,500 people are directly employed in aviation, generating USD 702.0 million of economic output, equal to 0.2% of total GDP,’ the report said.

Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Alawadhi commenting on the report said, ‘Aviation is a powerful engine for economic and social development. Nigeria’s National Day is a good opportunity to reflect on the immense value aviation brings to the country.’

‘Air transport supports over 217,000 jobs and contributes $2.5 billion to Nigeria’s GDP. With one of the fastest-growing populations in Africa and the world, and a predominantly young demographic, there is immense opportunity for future economic growth’, he added.

The IATA chief explained that there are different ways of measuring air transport’s impact on an economy.

Tourism supported by aviation, he noted, contributes $454.1 million to the country’s GDP and employs 66,600 people, stressing that international tourists to Nigeria are estimated to contribute $760.2 million annually to the economy through the purchase of goods and services from local businesses.

According to Alawadhi, aviation creates a range of social benefits and contributes significantly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including using air transport to enhance access to education, connecting friends and families, facilitating cultural exchange, and driving socio-economic development.

Acting together, these forces, he reiterated, enable a country to expand its productive potential, delivering long-term economic growth and supporting the reduction in poverty and improvement in living standards for all of the nation’s citizens.

‘Average Nigeria to work 37.6 days to afford flight ticket’

He said, ‘The cost of flying impacts the magnitude of the benefits that can be generated by air travel. In the past 50 years, flight costs have decreased by 70% globally, making air transport more accessible. The average real airfare in Nigeria decreased by 43%6 between 2011 and 2023, with the local population now needing to work 37.6 days to afford a plane ticket. Overall, 40 flights per 1,000 population were taken in 2023.’

‘Aviation stimulates global trade and investment, enables labour and capital productivity improvements, boosts innovation, and fosters knowledge exchange. The movement of goods, enabled by the air transport industry, brings about improved economic outcomes via catalytic collaboration, specialisation, and more efficient allocation of resources across all sectors of the local and world economy.’

The massive explosion that recently rocked the premises of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in Kaduna was preventable, and therefore, unacceptable. The blast which occurred on Saturday, September 20, 2025, reportedly detonated during the controlled disposal of expired gunpowder materials at the factory’s ordnance disposal pit in Kurmin Gwari.

The incidence, which left one person dead and several others injured including DICON’s civilian workers shook the surrounding buildings and sent residents scampering for safety.

An official statement later issued by DICON stated that the explosion occurred while specialists were disposing of expired ordnance materials stored at the factory. The affected items included Ammonia Nitrates, Primer Caps, Propellants, and other raw materials that had long exceeded their shelf life. A statement signed by the corporation’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, explained that DICON had since July 2025 began disposing of the expired items; adding that the unfortunate accident occurred while experts were concluding the destruction of the remaining stock.

Meanwhile, the military high command has ordered an immediate investigation into the explosion. The Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, affirmed in a statement that the Defence Headquarters deeply regrets the ordnance explosion. Also, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa extended condolences to the families and friends of the deceased; pledging to conduct a thorough investigation to prevent future incidents.

While this is the second incident in the country this year alone, it is a repeat of history at DICON. Earlier this year, residents of Maiduguri and its environs were at about 11.35pm on Wednesday April 30, 2025 rattled when several bomb explosions rang through the city from the Giwa Military Barracks’ armoury. The deafening explosions, which reportedly lasted for more than two hours, were followed by large balls of flames in the direction of the Giwa Barracks.

Officials attributed the Giwa Barracks’ explosions to a fire outbreak around the armoury section of the barracks. Speaking through Reuben Kovangiya, the Theatre Command Operation, HADIN KAI, said high temperatures in Maiduguri might have triggered the explosion of some ammunitions; a claim later corroborated by authorities of the Borno State Fire Service.

It would also be recalled that on Tuesday November 3, 2009, explosions which DICON authorities at that time described as a minor industrial accident rocked DICON factory when the General Manager was on an inspection tour of the factory. The six victims affected in the incident were DICON staff members working in the capping section of the factory.

The armoury detonations of Sunday, January 27, 2002 that hit the Ikeja military cantonment is another gory experience Nigerians would forever hate to remember. The explosion of ‘high calibre bombs’ believed to have been caused by a fire that started from a nearby street market and thereafter spread to the armoury terribly affected areas up to 50 kilometres away from the cantonment; leaving over 1,000 people dead, hundreds injured, and about 20,000 displaced from the immediate community. It also caused severe damage to a number of buildings in and around Ikeja.

Given the nature of previous incidents in which ordnance explosions were ascribed to expired substances and weather, repeated occurrences clearly point to sheer negligence on the part of military authorities. Their failure to learn from past incidents is also professionally indicting. DICON’s mandates include the operation, maintenance and control of ordnance factories for the manufacture, storage and disposal of weapons and ancillary stores and materials intended for or capable of being used by the armed forces.

Within the context of their mandate, DICON and heads of armoury sections in military barracks lack any excuses for not adhering to safety protocols in ordnance storage or disposal measures. Were storage facilities closely monitored in Giwa barracks; and were expiring munitions in DICON not left in stock until they became moribund, the two separate explosions would have been averted.

Similarly, had military authorities relocated DICON out of Kurmi Gwari neighbourhood in Kaduna and the armoury out of Ikeja ever since physical development caught up with the two sites that were considered outskirts in the past, the loss of lives and property witnessed in the Ikeja blasts and the recent DICON explosions would both have been forestalled.

We urge the CDS not to allow the report of the probe into the last DICON explosions go the way of previous investigations. It should be made public and persons responsible for operational failures sanctioned appropriately.

Daily Trust also calls on the Nigerian military to demonstrate value for human life by institutionalising operational safety in the warehousing and discarding of weapons and ammunitions.

Relocating weapons’ storage facilities from densely populated areas of cities would further prevent recurrence of ordnance explosions with its associated damages. DICON’s recent incident should be the last to be heard in the country. Nigeria has had enough of ordnance detonations.

The BRICS Russian Women’s Business Alliance has announced plans to open a regional office in Nigeria.

The disclosure was made by the BRICS Women Business Alliance Russian delegation during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

The team had earlier met with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the State House.

Briefing the press at the end of their two-day visit to Nigeria, BRICS Russia WBA Chairperson, Ms Anna Nesterova, said the five-member delegation is in Nigeria to express their readiness to do business in the country.

She said the team met with some private businesses in critical sectors like health and education.

She also noted that the BRICS WBA is a separate body and its programmes are purely for business.

Nesterova said: ‘This was the first meeting, so we introduced ourselves, and expressed our readiness to open the regional office in Nigeria, because we need to be smart about this new region for our business needs, and we need to process the new market.

‘So, we expressed our willingness to move forward, to bring more Russian women to Nigeria, to present our different spheres, especially technology, agriculture, healthcare, education, and labour mobility.’

Earlier, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed the willingness of both countries to strengthen bilateral ties using the platform of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance (WBA).

She described the meeting as timely, noting that it afforded a platform for both countries to explore investment opportunities between them.

Gael Monfils says he feels ‘stupidly lucky’ to have played in a golden era of tennis after announcing he will retire at the end of the 2026 season.

The 39-year-old has won 13 titles in his career and became the oldest ATP Tour champion at the age of 38 and four months when he won the Auckland Open in January.

Monfils’ athleticism and all-action displays made him one of the most popular players on tour.

However, the world number 53 has struggled with injuries in recent years and he was forced to retire from last month’s Chengdu Open with an ankle problem.

‘Life is too short. Believe me when I say that I have no regrets,’ Monfils wrote on Instagram.