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The House of Representatives on Wednesday asked the Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to direct the Bank of Agriculture, the Bank of Industry (BoI) and other relevant financial institutions to provide easy access to short-term loans in favour of cassava farmers in the country.

The House also asked the government to immediately reconstitute the defunct Presidential Committee on the Cassava Initiative Programme, known as ‘Composite Cassava Flour of 2002’ to improve the welfare of cassava peasant farmers in the country.

In a resolution following a motion sponsored by Canice Moore Chukwuugozie Nwachhukwu, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to embark on massive value chain training of peasant farmers on cassava production, processing and packaging.

Moving the motion, Nwachhukwu said cassava production in Nigeria is developing as an organised agricultural crop with locally established processing techniques for food products and livestock feeds.

He informed cassava is produced in almost all the 36 States of the Federation, including the FCT, while the peels have a high level of Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN), particularly in bitter cassava varieties, which are common in Nigeria and used as an energy supplement in cattle, which can partly replace 30% of total Dry Matter Intake (DMI) energy concentrates, with no influence on the intake, digestibility, microbial efficiency and nitrogen retention and act as an antidote to many cattle diseases.

He stated that there are four planting seasons across the country’s six geopolitical zones and is therefore available all year round.

According to him, this will give the farmers access to a better market share with good selling prices, which will ultimately increase their income while contributing their quota in feeding the nation and increase Gross Domestic Product (GDP), adding that diversification of the Nigerian economy could be achieved by using cassava as an alternative to crude oil to earn substantial amounts of foreign exchange through massive cultivation both for local consumption and export.

Reigning champions Rivers Hoopers launched their 2025 Nigeria Basketball Premier League Final Eight Playoffs campaign with a commanding 73-50 victory over Hoops and Read, thanks to an explosive first-quarter performance which helped the KingsMen lead from start to finish.

The defending champions started hot, opening up a 12-0 lead inside the first four minutes, thanks to four consecutive shots from deep courtesy of Mustapha Oyebanji and Isaiah Williams. That twelve-point lead grew to eighteen at the end of the first quarter as the score stood at 29-11.

Speaking after the game, Rivers Hoopers Head Coach Ogoh Odaudu said his team’s strong start was crucial in determining the outcome of the game.

‘We started off really strong, and I think that determined the direction that the game was going to go. Even though the guys took their foot off the pedal at some point in the game and almost let the opponents come back. It’s something I’m going to have to address going forward.’

Hoops and Read tried to find a way back into the game but could only reduce the deficit by two points at halftime, as the hosts took a 41-25 lead into the break.

Both teams seemed to have gone cold following the break, as they could only manage ten points apiece in a combative third quarter, before the KingsMen wrapped up the win with an improved fourth-quarter showing.

Despite the twenty-three-point demolition of their opponents, for coach Odaudu, picking up a vital win to start the playoffs was what really mattered.

‘For us, it doesn’t matter the number of points we win by; just a win is good for us. We’ll take a one-point lead; we’ll take a half-point lead; a win is a win. ‘We’re happy with how it ended,’ he emphasised.

Overall, it was an all-round team performance from the defending champions, as ten out of the eleven KingsMen who made the matchday roster scored points, with thirty-five (35) points coming from the bench.

Captain Victor Anthony Koko alongside Oyebanji led the KingsMen with eleven (11) points apiece, while the energetic Victor Sunday dropped ten (10) points along with five rebounds and five steals. Isaiah Williams scored nine (9) points on his Rivers Hoopers debut, as Peter Olisemeka recorded a game-high twelve (12) rebounds.

Kelvin Amayo, who was named the Most Valuable Player at the 2024 NBPL Finals, scored nine (9) points on his return to basketball in Nigeria and relished the support of the Port Harcourt crowd, which cheered on the team to victory.

‘To be honest, playing in PH (Port Harcourt) is always the best to me. The fans always do a great job; they love watching us play. I’m just happy to be here and be able to showcase what we’ve been working [on] throughout the season and off-season, to come here and give them a show,’ he revealed.

Rivers Hoopers will next be in action this evening , 28th October, as they take on Kano Pillars in a matchday two encounter.

DAY 2 -28TH OCTOBER:

11:00am: Kwara Falcons vs. Lagos Legends

1:00pm: Nigeria Customs vs. Gboko City Chiefs

3:00pm: Nile University vs. Hoops and Read

5:00pm: Kano Pillars vs. Rivers Hoopers

All games will be played at the Basketball Stadium, #59 Niger Street, Port Harcourt, and Rivers State.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal (AVM)Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has said air power pressure would be on terrorists such that they won’t have the time to plan attacks.

Aneke said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) under his watch would keep the insurgents running without time to think or plan, assuring that he would lead a versatile, disciplined, and lethal service.

‘I use the word lethal in a professional sense because a man running from you will not have the time to plan to hurt you,’ he said.

A statement Wednesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the CAS gave the assurances during his confirmation before the National Assembly.

Ejodame said the Air Chief stressed that his leadership would be anchored on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation, emphasising that ‘true military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability.’

‘The new CAS vowed to build an Air Force that responds swiftly, strikes precisely, and acts intelligently across all spectrums of military operations, a force defined not only by strength, but by precision, professionalism, and purpose,’ said the DOPRI.

Aneke’s confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Tinubu in accordance with Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.With this confirmation, he legally succeeds Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, joining other Service Chiefs as a member of the Armed Forces Council.

Lawmakers at the confirmation session praised AVM Aneke’s depth of experience, operational leadership, and intellectual grounding.

They particularly commended his tenure as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, where he improved strategic airlift capability, strengthened joint operations, and enhanced the

NAF’s responsiveness in complex security environments. His leadership in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations was also lauded for its critical role in shaping Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts and internal security outcomes.

Beyond the individual merit of his appointment, AVM Aneke’s confirmation carries constitutional and strategic significance. Constitutionally, it reinforces the principle of civilian oversight in military leadership and underscores the National Assembly’s role in ensuring transparency and democratic accountability within the Armed Forces. Strategically, it marks continuity and confidence in a leadership transition aimed at consolidating NAF’s modernisation drive, expanding airpower projection, and deepening civil-military trust.

A scholar and strategist, AVM Aneke is a graduate of the United States Air War College, Montgomery, Alabama, and holds multiple advanced degrees, including Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy and Development Studies. With more than 4,300 flight hours across several aircraft types, he stands among Nigeria’s most accomplished pilots and forward-looking airpower professionals.

The confirmation session was witnessed by key dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado. As he assumes office, AVM Aneke’s message to Nigerians is clear: the Nigerian Air Force under his command will be swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution, a force built not merely for power, but for purpose, protection, and progress.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned night club operators and fun seekers that organising, hosting and attending drug parties is illegal under Nigerian law.

The agency’s warning comes on the heels of a raid carried out by its operatives at a drug party, which held last Saturday night into the early hours of Sunday at Proxy Night Club on 7 Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Over 100 attendees were arrested along with the owner of the facility, Mike Eze Nwalie Nwogu alias Pretty Mike and his manager Joachin Millary.

Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, said: ‘Any gathering organised for the purpose of consuming, distributing, or abusing illicit substances is an act of criminality. These ‘drug parties’ contravene the explicit provisions of the NDLEA Act and will be treated as serious narcotic offences. In the case of the drug party at Proxy night club, organisers went above board and had the audacity to produce and circulate flyers inviting fun seekers to come together to commit crime, an act that not only constitutes an incitement to commit crime but equally an affront to the law enforcement capabilities of the country if condoned.

‘Nigeria is currently grappling with a very high prevalence rate of drug abuse, particularly among our youths. These illicit drug parties do not only fuel the drug scourge but equally serve as hubs for new recruitment into drug addiction and actively undermine our current national efforts to safeguard public health and security.

‘In the recent case, the NDLEA was meticulous and professional throughout the processes leading to the raid and during the operation. Following intelligence on the party, our undercover agents conducted surveillance on the facility, made pre-purchases of illicit drugs from within the club and for four hours between 11pm on Saturday and 3am on Sunday during the party, our operatives observed and recorded drug transactions and abuse going on before we eventually disrupted the brazen public display of illegality and made arrests.

‘All attendees initially arrested were later profiled, addressed, counselled and released within hours in custody, in line with best global practices while the two principal suspects: Pretty Mike and his manager, Joachin Millary remain in custody following the seizure of 384.882 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a strong strain of cannabis and other substances from the club’s store.

‘While the agency will intensify surveillance and apply the full force of the law against perpetrators, owners of properties, hotels, and event centres found to be knowingly hosting such illegal activities risk the confiscation and forfeiture of their assets to the Federal Government. Those held in custody in the ongoing case will face prosecution while we will file for forfeiture of the property, Proxy Night Club, in which the drugs were found.’

It urged all patriotic Nigerians, parents, religious and community leaders, as well as concerned citizens to be vigilant, report such activities, and partner with the NDLEA in combating this threat to national well-being.

Arsenal pair William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli have been ruled out of today’s Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Brighton.

Defender Saliba was forced off at half-time of Sunday’s 1-0 Premier League win over Crystal Palace, while forward Martinelli limped down the tunnel after coming on as a second-half substitute.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, who confirmed Riccardo Calafiori, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka will be available to face the Seagulls, is unsure how long the duo will remain sidelined.

Asked about Saliba, Arteta replied: ‘He’s out. We are assessing him but he won’t be involved in this match.’

Speaking of Martinelli, the Spaniard said: ‘It looks as well he’s going to be out.

‘We have to do some more tests and see the extent of the injury but this game is going to be too early for him.’

The loss of Martinelli adds to Arsenal’s attacking issues, with Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus already unavailable due to injuries.

‘In the front line, that’s where we have more difficulties with Noni out, with Kai out, with Gabi Jesus out, with Gabi Martinelli out as well,’ Arteta, who plans to rotate his squad, said. ‘That’s the area where we have to be more careful, more conscious, because we don’t have that many options.

‘We are going to try to manage the load as good as possible, to make sure that the players are fresh, they can compete really well, and the team can maintain the level that it is showing.’

Victory over London rivals Palace left Arsenal four points clear at the top of the Premier League, with seven wins, a draw and one defeat from nine fixtures.

Arteta is embracing the optimism around the club.

‘That’s what we want,’ he said. ‘When our people are excited and you see that the team is competing at the level consistently, they are the right reasons to believe.

‘If you want to win big trophies, you certainly have to install that feeling amongst the team, the club, and around it.

‘We are in a really good position at the moment but we know how early it is and how difficult every game is.’

English League Cup Fixtures

Arsenal vs. Brighton

Liverpool vs. Crystal Palace

Swansea versus Man City

Wolves vs. Chelsea

Newcastle United vs. Tottenham

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has reassured residents that no part of the state will be left undeveloped.

He promised that ongoing infrastructure upgrade will spread to all communities across the three Senatorial districts.

The government, according to a statement by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, is simultaneously working on four major highways in the Ifo, Sango Ota and Idiroko axis of the state.

He dismissed as mischief the claim in certain quarters that the government had left some bad portions on other roads unattended to, saying that the administration has plans to spread development as dividends of democracy to all parts, including the roads in Lafenwa-Itele Ayetoro areas of the state.

The special adviser noted that the 140-kilometer Abeokuta-Lagos Expressway is being fixed by the state government despited being a federal road.

He added that the, Sango- Ido Iroko, also a Federal Government road,is under construction by the state government.

He added that the government is attending to the Sango-Idiroko Highway, while it had completed about 22 kilometres between Ijoko, Agbado and Alagbole road

‘The area being mostly complained about -the Ota-Itele-Lafenwa stretch, which is about 24 kilometres – had been incorporated into the 2026 budget long before social media hoopla’ Akinmade clarified in the statement

The decision, he said, was a confirmation of Governor Abiodun’s determination to spread even development to all books and crannies of the state as fast as he is allowed to do by time and resources.

Akinmade further said the underlisted roads have been completed in Ifo- Ado Odo-Ota axis of the State.

1. Ikorita Meta, Adenrele/Olose Titus Vespa Road (3.1km)

2. Old Bank Road-Orita Meta – Coker Junction, Olumo Spur Road (1km).

3. Olusegun Osoba, Toyin, Agbado Road(2.4km).

4. Reconstruction of Sango, Ota- Oke Aro, Ojodu Abiodun Road, Lagos end (Yakoyo to Mr. Biggs) Phase 6(1.6km).

5. Reconstruction of Sango Ota, Oke Aro, Ojodu Abiodun Road (Sango Roundabout to Ijoko bridge) phase 1, (8.5km)

6. Akute, Denro, Ishasi Road (4.8km).

7. Alhaji Kosoko Street, Ojodu Abiodun (Sectional Rehabilitation,Resurfacing (1km)

8. Ajulo-Akute Road (3km).

9. Hercules-Giwa Road (1.3km).

10. Alagbole-Ajulo Road (1.7km).

11. Akute bridge- Oke Aro bridge)9.2km).

12. Atan – Lusada- Marogbo Toll Road (19.2km).

13. Lanfenwa – Osi, Ikola Road (7km).

14. Reconstruction of Bible College, Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government (3.89km).

He said: ‘While recognizing the rights of the good people of Ogun State to continue to demand for the dividends of democracy, the government warned the public to be wary of the antics of opposition politicians and their quest to call a dog a bad name in other to hang it.

‘In its determination to run a transparent and people-driven government, the Dapo Abiodun led administration will never fail to respond to public scrutiny. However, we are not unaware of the ongoing move by political detractors to tarnish the image of the government by whipping up unnecessary incitements.

‘The road is in question, like many others in Sango-Ota axis, had been in that deplorable state for many years before the coming of Governor Abiodun. They are part of the huge infrastructure deficit inherited by this administration in 2019.

‘Aside from the now trending Ota-Itele-Lafenwa road, other very important roads, including Sango-Ijoko-Agbado-Oke Aro-Lambe-Akute road; Sango Ota-Papalanto-Abeokuta road and Sango-Idiroko road were in terrible states of disrepair when Governor Abiodun took office.

‘Today, however, the story is different, as can be attested to by the good people of the area who daily pour prayers and appreciation messages on the current government in the state.

‘The Dapo Abiodun administration, rising up to the challenges posed by the huge road deficit in the axis, and moved by the cries of the people, embarked on a massive reconstruction of three out of the four major roads in the axis, almost at the same time. The remaining one, which is the now trending Ota-Itele-Lafenwa, is covered by the 2026 budget.

‘The Sango-Ijoko-Agbado-Oke Aro-Lambe-Akute road, which is about 30km; and 140km Sango Ota-Papalanto-Abeokuta road; as well as Sango-Idiroko road that stand at 63km, have all been turned into massive constructions sites where not less than 50 per cent progresses have been made.

‘But for the rains, work would have moved on at a much higher pace. Governor Abiodun has never left anyone in doubt of his determination to work assiduously till the very last minute of his tenure. The good people of Ogun State should be rest assured that the ongoing widespread development that is sweeping across the state will not exclude any part of the state.

‘At a time when our dear state is in the news for numerous never-seen-before feats, including a world class airport, a global standard Sports Complex, the largest cement factory in West Africa, and many others, we must not lose sight of the many reasons to be proud of our home state due to the antics of a few naysayers.’

Kiddwaya, son of billionaire Terry Waya and reality star, has opened up about why he avoids dating women who are financially unstable.

In a podcast appearance on Off The Record, he stated that women from lower-income backgrounds often develop a sense of entitlement when exposed to his affluent lifestyle.

The billionaire heir said they may be humble and appreciative, but over time, they start comparing themselves to others and expecting luxury items and experiences.

Kiddwaya noted that this shift in attitude can lead to relationship issues, with entitlement sometimes manifesting as rudeness.

He further opined that bringing someone from a lower financial background into his world can be challenging, and he’s learned to prioritise relationships with individuals who share similar values and energy.

He said: ‘At first, they’re thankful everything feels new and exciting. But after a few months, they start comparing themselves to others.

‘They want the same bags, the same trips, and soon, what was once special becomes expected. The entitlement sets in and sometimes turns into rudeness. That’s been my biggest issue dating someone from a lower class and bringing them into my lifestyle.’

Stardust Media Services Limited has rewarded outstanding children with cash prizes at the maiden edition of the Abuja Creativity, Innovation, and Nutrition Gathering, aimed at unveiling and nurturing the unique abilities of young Nigerians.

The event, themed ‘Igniting Creativity, Innovation and Nutrition for Young Minds in Nigeria,’ brought together over 1,000 children from schools and families across the Federal Capital Territory and other states.

Speaking at the colourful occasion, the Chief Executive Officer of Stardust Media Services, Queen Irene Onwuka, said the programme was designed to provide a platform for children to showcase their technical skills, inventive ideas, and nutritional awareness.

The carnival featured cultural dance performances, innovation exhibitions, traditional food displays, and a creative cultural march-past that celebrated Nigeria’s diversity and young talents.

The event climaxed with an award ceremony recognising exceptional young innovators. Igbabee Terkuma from Philips St. Dominik School, Makurdi, Benue State, emerged the overall winner in the Creativity category, receiving a star prize of ?1,000,000.

Chukuma Miracle of JSS Kuje Central, FCT, won ?500,000 as the first runner-up in the Nutrition category, while Isaac Oluwatobiloba Faloye received ?300,000 for his outstanding performance in the Innovation category.

Queen Onwuka expressed delight over the success of the event, describing it as a milestone in empowering children to think creatively, eat healthily, and dream boldly. She said the initiative was a step toward nurturing future innovators who will drive Nigeria’s growth and cultural vibrancy.

Dignitaries from the public and private sectors attended the occasion, including representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education, Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, FCT Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), Niger State SUBEB, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on School Feeding.

The Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Bola Oladunjoye, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development.

He made this known during the 2026 Budget Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the council sectetariat, Obalende.

Oladunjoye described the meeting as an important platform to strengthen collaboration between government and residents, as well as to ensure transparency, accountability, and people-driven decision-making in the budgeting process.

He explained that the purpose of the forum was fourfold – to gather input and feedback from stakeholders on priority needs for the 2026 fiscal year, ensure transparency in the budgeting process, facilitate effective communication between government and the public, and identify critical needs such as infrastructure, social services, and economic opportunities for inclusion in the new budget.

‘We are a government of the people, and we value the input of our people in the administration. Our open-door policy is evident in today’s event, where we seek direct input from you in developing an inclusive budget for the 2026 fiscal year. We want to know your priorities, not what we think you need,’ he said.

The council boss emphasised that his administration is guided by the principle of participatory governance, where the people’s voices determine the focus of government actions. He urged residents to actively participate in the consultative forum, noting that democracy thrives when citizens take ownership of governance.

‘This government is your government. It is what you say we should do that we will do. As citizens, you have the power to steer the ship of governance in the direction that you want it to go,’ he noted.

Highlighting the council’s achievements, the chairman listed the ongoing rehabilitation of Lugard Avenue, which is 90 percent completed, and the reconstruction of Polo Club Road, Ikoyi, which has already commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony.

He also noted that the administration had intensified efforts to boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) through efficient, transparent, and accountable measures. These include branding of revenue officers, purchase of revenue buses, introduction of an electronic billing and payment system, and a comprehensive enumeration of all revenue sources within the council.

On security, Oladunjoye commended residents and security agencies for their cooperation and vigilance in maintaining peace and reducing crime rates within the council area.

He further reiterated the council’s ‘Zero Tolerance’ policy for environmental infractions, stating that Street Marshals have been deployed to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

While assuring residents of continued delivery of people-oriented projects, the council boss appealed to all ratepayers to fulfill their civic obligations, stressing that prompt payment of levies and dues is vital to sustaining developmental efforts.

‘Your contributions are crucial to our community’s growth and development. Together, we can build a better Ikoyi-Obalende,’ he said.

Fast-rising Nigerian comedian, Leakingmouth, has reached another milestone in his career after selling out the biggest hall in Jos with his much-anticipated comedy show tagged ‘JOS LIKE DAT.’

The event, held on Sunday, October 26, attracted a massive crowd of comedy lovers, celebrities, and entertainment enthusiasts from across Plateau State and beyond.

The record-breaking performance comes just months after Leakingmouth thrilled audiences at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton in Abuja with his debut show – a feat that cemented his place among Nigeria’s top-tier comedians.

Speaking after the Jos show, Leakingmouth described the experience as both emotional and fulfilling.

‘After doing my show for the first time at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, taking the comedy show to Jos is such a fulfilling experience for me and my team,’ he said. ‘Jos has always been special to me – the energy, the love, and the people are simply amazing.’

Fans at the event were full of praise for the comedian’s creativity, relatable jokes, and captivating stage presence.

A fan, Gloria Bitrus, said, ‘Leakingmouth is different. His jokes connect with everyday life, and that’s why we love him. The show was totally worth it.’

Another attendee, Samuel Danjuma, added, ‘It’s not every day you see a comedian fill a hall of this size in Jos. He made history tonight.’

With ‘JOS LIKE DAT’ now a resounding success, Leakingmouth has once again affirmed his growing influence in Nigeria’s entertainment scene.

His team hinted that the comedian plans to take the show to more cities across the country in 2026, continuing his mission to spread laughter and joy nationwide.