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Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), a subsidiary of Thor Explorations and operator of Nigeria’s first commercial gold project, Segilola Gold Mine in Osun State, has participated as a Gold Sponsor at 2025 Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja.

During the week, SROL hosted its Second Annual Stakeholder Reception at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The event convened over 100 industry’s top voices, policymakers, regulators, financiers, legal experts, and development partners. Also present were Faruk Yabo, permanent secretary of Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development; Prof. Innocent Bariko, director general of National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency; Simon Nkom, director general of Mining Cadastre Office; and Prof. Olusegun Ige, director general of Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA).

They were joined by senior representatives from Babalakin and Co., ENR Advisory, VUKA Group, Africa Finance Corporation, Bank of Industry, and other key institutions shaping Nigeria’s mining.

The reception served as a strategic forum to align visions across sectors, foster transparency, and reaffirm SROL’s commitment to responsible mining as a driver of economic and social development in Nigeria.

Segun Lawson, chief executive of Segilola, lauded stakeholders who supported its journey, saying ‘it took courage to build what we have. It takes courage to do things differently, to build mines not just for profit, but for people, planet, and posterity.

”At Segilola, we chose a path grounded in responsibility and driven by innovation, committing to a sustainable future for Nigerian mining.’

Guests engaged with the tangible results of SROL’s livelihood restoration programs, community-led initiatives designed to build resilient and diversified local economies. These efforts exemplify the company’s inclusive development model and its enduring commitment to sustainable growth.

Throughout the Nigeria Mining Week, SROL played a leading role in shaping discussions around the future of the industry.

As a Gold Sponsor, the company contributed to high-impact conversations through keynote addresses, panel discussions, and thought leadership sessions focused on regulatory evolution, sustainable finance, and sector-wide transformation.

SROL’s exhibition booth served as a hub of engagement for stakeholders eager to connect with the team behind Nigeria’s pioneering gold mine.

As Nigeria’s mining renaissance gathers momentum, Segilola Resources Operating Limited stands at its forefront-proving that responsible mining can drive lasting transformation. The Second Annual Stakeholder Reception was not merely a reflection of progress but a reaffirmation of SROL’s vision for a future where communities, industry, and sustainability thrive together.

Stakeholders in the education sector have urged teachers in the country to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) for future-ready education system.

They made the call during the Train the Trainer-Teacher’s summit 2025 at the weekend in Abuja.

Speaking at the summit, gender advocate, Hansatu Adegbite, underscored the need for teachers to integrate technology into their teaching practices to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

She noted that the future of education depended on how effectively educators adapt to technological advancements and leverage them to enhance learning outcomes.

The keynote speaker noted that AI tools can help teachers personalise instruction, automate administrative tasks, and foster creativity among students, thereby creating a more engaging and efficient learning environment.

Adegbite, who is also the Executive Director, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), urged teachers to view AI not as a threat but as an enabler that can empower them to deliver better results.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Deconstruct the old, define the new’, the gender advocate challenged educators to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace innovative strategies that align with the realities of the digital age.

She highlighted the critical role of AI and technology in the future of education and the need for teachers to learn and adapt to these changes.

She noted that deconstructing old models of education does not mean discarding foundational values but rather reimagining how those values can be expressed through modern tools and approaches.

The Convener, Train the Trainer Teachers Summit, Dr Onyekachi Onwudike-Jumbo noted the collective responsibility of teachers, parents, and schools in educating children.

She emphasised the importance of a standardised education system that provides equal opportunities for all students.

Onwudike-Jumbo encouraged participants to take action and collaborate to improve the educational system.

Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba underscored the need for educators to leave a lasting impact and celebrates the ongoing efforts to improve education.

Represented by the Director, Social Mobilisation, UBEC, Dr. Ossom Ossom, the executive secretary highlighted ongoing reforms introduced by the commission, including sharing best practices, and empowering teachers to improve learning outcomes.

She announced plans to train 875,000 teachers and introduce digital pedagogy in learning environments.

‘This initiative aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to enhance classroom learning and ensure they can add value to the educational process,’ the executive secretary added.

Several persons have been injured in a clash between Hausa and Benin youths in Ogheghe community, Egor local government area of Edo State over the killing of a suspected yahoo boy identified as Chizi Benz.

Chizi Benz was said to have been stabbed to death by a Hausa youth of over a sour deal.

Details of the deal were not available as of press time.

The killing of Chidi Benz sparked outrage as youths stormed the streets with dangerous weapons in a revenge mission.

Sources said many ‘Abokis’ were injured in a reprisal attack while others fled for safety.

News of the killing spread to nearby communities of Uwelu along the Siluko Axis.

Hausa youths who do petty trading and rides okada closed their businesses and fled for safety.

Policemen who were deployed to the area fired tear gas to disperse the angry youths.

Edo Police Spokesman, Moses Yamu, who confirmed the incident, promised to send detailed statement.

He was yet to do so as of press time.

Lagos nightlife is about to come alive again as popular entertainer Godillac gears up to headline the much-anticipated ‘Vibes on Vibes (VOV)’ Block Party, holding on Thursday, October 30, at Del Lagos, Isheri-Idimu, Lagos.

The event, organized by Del Lagos in conjunction with Evergreen Entertainment and Olumix Entertainment, promises a night of pure vibes, pulsating music, and electrifying performances from the headliner, guest artistes, DJs and hypemen.

Billed as one of the biggest block parties to hit the Alimosho this season, VOV with Godillac will feature thrilling stage moments, special appearances, and themed performances tagged ‘Gorilla and White Strippers’- designed to add a wild, dramatic flair to the night’s entertainment.

According to the organizers, the event aims to create a convergence of music lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, and young trendsetters for an unforgettable experience.

Also speaking ahead of the event, the headliner, Godillac, said the show is designed to give fans an elevated experience of his artistry and the Lagos nightlife scene.

‘Vibes on Vibes is not just another party,’ Godillac said. ‘It’s a movement. We’re bringing raw energy, great music, and a unique Lagos flavour that connects with the streets and the culture. I can’t wait to share that moment with everyone who pulls up.’

Coca-Cola Nigeria has reignited its Share-A-Coke campaign, with a launch in Lagos .

The event, welcomed media professionals, content creators, and fans as well as customers to celebrate the values of sharing, personalisation, and community that have made Share-A-Coke a cultural phenomenon around the world.

The launch brought the campaign’s essence to life through interactive installations, creative personalisation zones, and performances by artists like Wande Coal, Odumodublvk, Falz, Shody, D.J Shawn, and Rybeena. Guests located and personalise Coca-Cola bottles to bear their names or those of loved ones, creating moments of joy and connection captured in photos and videos.

Mariam Kaham, general manager, said the launch was return of a most endearing campaigns, but with a focus on Gen Zs.

‘Today marks the comeback of the world’s most loved campaign, in Nigeria. Nigerians have done this in the past and now it is bigger, better, bolder, here for you. So, we have crafted this for the Gen Zs,’ she said.

She noted that the campaign is more than just names on bottles, but about creating real connections.

‘When you hand someone a Coke with their name on it, you are giving them something deeply personal: their identity, their moment, and their story and that’s what makes Share A Coke so special,’ Kaham said.

The event also featured an engaging digital activation where attendees scanned QR codes on specially marked bottles to generate personalised ‘Share-A-Coke Memory’ digital keepsakes. The experience seamlessly blended nostalgia with innovation, showcasing Coca-Cola’s ability to evolve with its audience while preserving the emotional connection that defines the brand.

Yusuf Murtala, Senior Director and Head of Marketing at Coca-Cola Nigeria, highlighted the campaign’s strategic relevance in reconnecting the brand with younger audiences.

‘We’re reintroducing a campaign with global heritage and giving it a modern Nigerian pulse. By combining personalization, digital interactivity, and community storytelling, we’re creating experiences that people want to share, not just products they want to buy,’ he said.

Valerie Odubogun, Director of Frontline Marketing at Coca-Cola Nigeria, emphasised the importance of authentic engagement in every aspect of the campaign.

‘Our goal is to ensure that Share-A-Coke resonates at every touchpoint, from retail shelves to social spaces. It’s about sparking conversations, creating smiles, and celebrating the joy that comes from sharing a Coke with someone you care about,’ she noted.

Originally launched globally more than a decade ago, Share A Coke became a defining marketing movement by replacing the iconic Coca-Cola logo with popular first names on bottles and cans. In Nigeria, the campaign has enjoyed enormous success, strengthening emotional ties to the brand and inspiring a culture of connection among young people. Its return in 2025 marks a renewed commitment by Coca-Cola Nigeria to celebrate individuality while fostering a sense of togetherness across communities.

Following the Lagos launch, Share-A-Coke will roll out nationwide with personalised bottle drops, interactive pop-up stations in major cities, and a series of influencer-led digital activations under the hashtag #ShareACokeNG.

There are over 1,000 names on the bottles, while gifts items would be won during the campaign season that runs till the end of December.

The campaign will continue to spotlight everyday stories of friendship, love, and celebration, reminding Nigerians that a simple act of sharing can create moments that last.

‘As we relaunch this iconic campaign, we’re not just reintroducing a product experience; we’re reviving a movement,’ Kaham concluded. ‘Share A Coke is about joy, connection, and community. We want every bottle shared to represent a story, a smile, and a moment that brings people closer together.’

‘share a coke isn’t about the can or your bottle. It is about the personalized connections, you make, it’s about having your dinner party with all your friends with personalised names on the table, or you like to go to the big parties and you get the baddies with the besties. So, I invite all of you to go out there, try your favorite Coca-Cola products in the can in the bottle. Look for the names that vibe with you, whether it’s the name, whether it’s the mood, whatever energy you want.

She thanked her company’s various partners, including Nigerian Bottling Company, for working tirelessly to bring the campaign back to life.

I wasn’t always a believer. When I first encountered His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, I was skeptical. He was in the PDP then, and I had no reason to trust his vision. But one evening changed everything. I sat with him and listened – really listened. I saw the intensity in his voice, the focus in his eyes, the clarity in his thoughts.

This wasn’t a politician putting on a show. It was the quiet force of someone who had seen tomorrow and was determined to bring it into today. That night, his words echoed in my mind. Through Governor Peter Mbah’s eyes, I glimpsed a future where the glory of my beloved Enugu would shine brighter than ever before.

After the war and years of neglect, our industries had gone quiet. Our proud civil servants held the fort in an economy that moved slowly – dignified, peaceful, but asleep.

Then came Governor Mbah, with private-sector precision. And with almost startling speed, the work began. Sit-at-home ended. Insecurity was tackled. Not one, not two, but six ultramodern bus terminals were commissioned in a single day – a bold signal that motion had returned to Enugu. Then came the Smart Schools Project.

Two hundred and sixty world-class schools – one in every ward. Learning systems built for the 21st century: solar-powered classrooms, digital labs, AI-assisted platforms, robotics, coding, green design. Imagine each school graduating at least five hundred students a year – that’s 130,000 young minds annually. A pool of ready talent to position Enugu as the Silicon Valley of Africa. With Governor Peter Mbah’s Smart Schools, our children’s tomorrow is already taking shape.

At the same time, he’s reimagining Enugu as a global destination – a vision that came alive when the city hosted the Nigerian Bar Association Conference. Enugu exhaled after years of dormancy. Over 20,000 delegates arrived. Hotels sold out. Private homes, student hostels, even old guesthouses were refurbished and rented out. That one week put more money into more hands than a year of bureaucratic salary disbursements. It was a true awakening.

The five-star ICC Hotel is nearing completion, right beside the state-of-the-art hospital designed to support medical tourism, now almost finished. The Akanu Ibiam International Airport has been concessioned, with its international wing set to open in early 2026. Enugu Air launched just months ago, with six more aircraft arriving before Christmas. By the end of next year, four new branded hotels will be completed. And across the state, dozens of other high-impact projects are rising. Governor Peter Mbah’s government has set a bold target: attract three million visitors annually and grow Enugu’s GDP from four to thirty billion dollars.

To anchor that ambition, he’s building what will soon be the tallest landmark in the state – the Cross of Hope. A monument of faith, culture, and tourism. It will draw pilgrims as Jerusalem and Rome do, reminding the world that spirituality and modernity can coexist beautifully on the hilltop of Enugu. Governor Mbah’s transformation plan is holistic – from power to infrastructure to culture.

With the urbanization of Nkanu East fully underway, I know fresh investment and fresh purpose will soon pour into my hometown, Nara Unateze. So yes, I’m a believer. And a disciple. Politics must meet truth, and the truth is that Governor Peter Mbah is working – without excuses – for all of us. If you have a dream for Enugu, or children, or even business interests, take a moment to reflect on this. Verify if you must. And join me in defending, protecting, and championing Governor Mbah’s vision.

I’m confident we’ll all witness the full sunrise of the tomorrow he’s building today. Because even if he reaches only halfway to the skies, Enugu will already be flying higher than it has in decades.

But I believe he’ll reach them. And when he does, we’ll all say that a governor came who refused to dream small. Ndi Enugu, brace yourselves. The sleeping giant is wide awake. The hill is alive again – with the sound of music and a loud drum.

Tomorrow is here indeed, and Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is leading the charge.

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday commended the role of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) in women empowerment as the committee celebrates 25th anniversary.

They made the commendation at the opening of a three-day National Women’s Conference organised by COWLSO at Eko Hotel in Lagos.

In attendance were wives of the governors of Ogun, Osun and Nassarawa states, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Mrs Titi Adeleke, and Hajia Silifat Sule.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu praised COWLSO for contributions to nation-building and urged women to uphold the values of selflessness and service.

Tinubu, who resuscitated the conference during her tenure as the Wife of Lagos State Governor, described COWLSO as an enduring model of women’s collaboration.

According to her, its 25-year journey shows what women can achieve when united by purpose.

‘COWLSO remains a beacon of hope and an example of what women can do together. It has inspired generations to rise, lead and give back to society. I commend all members for sustaining the vision, and urge you to continue empowering others,’ she said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu described COWLSO as a symbol of compassion, continuity and transformative leadership in women empowerment.

He said that COWLSO had evolved from a modest initiative into a dynamic platform of change, inspiring women to become innovators, changemakers and community leaders.

He said the committee had continued to demonstrate the values of compassion, collaboration and continuity.

He added that it had grown into a rallying point for women, who believed leadership was not about holding titles, but transforming lives.

‘Twenty-five years ago, a simple but powerful idea was born – to serve, to uplift and to make a difference. Today, we gather not just to celebrate, but to honour women whose vision, strength and service have defined our humanity,’ he said.

He commended his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for devotion to family well-being and empowerment programmes that continued to touch lives across the state.

Chairperson of COWLSO, Dr Sanwo-Olu, hailed past wives of Lagos State governors; COWLSO partners, and other women, who had contributed to the growth of COWLSO’s growth.

She said the anniversary was not just a celebration of longevity, but a reaffirmation of purpose to build a Lagos and Nigeria where every woman could dream freely, lead boldly and thrive fully.

‘As we reflect on the past 25 years, we renew our commitment to nurturing families, empowering women, and promoting values that strengthen our society,’ Sanwo-Olu said.

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 Chairman National Population Commission (NPC) Nasir Isa-Kwarra has ended his five-year tenure.

He handed over leadership of the NPC to the Federal Commissioner Muhammad Dattijo, who represents Niger State.

Dattijo will serve as acting Chairman until Aminu Yusuf is sworn in as Chairman by President Bola Tinubu.

The brief handover ceremony at the NPC Headquarters in Abuja, was attended by Federal Commissioners, the Director-General, Directors, and Commission staff.

In a statement by the Commission on Wednesday, Kwarra thanked his colleagues and subordinates for their cooperation during his tenure.

The statement reads: ‘Hon. Kwarra expressed appreciation to the Federal Commissioners, Management and Staff of the NPC for their unwavering support and dedication throughout his five-year tenure, highlighting the commission’s strides in strengthening data collection systems, digitizing Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system and advancing preparations for the forthcoming national Population and Housing Census’.

He added the achievements recorded under his leadership were made possible through collective commitment and professionalism, the statement noted.

The occasion was marked by emotional farewells and tributes, including the signing of the official handover notes, the presentation of a gift to Kwarra, and a group photograph to commemorate the day.

Kwarra, appointed in 2020 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, led the commission during one of its most critical periods, the build-up to Nigeria’s first population and housing census in nearly two decades.

The last national census was conducted in 2006, making the forthcoming exercise a key national priority.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Zamfara Chapter, says it remains unshaken in spite of defections from the party to All Progressives Congress (APC).

This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Gusau by Mr Halliru Andi, the Publicity Secretary of the party.

While the PDP is the ruling party in the state, APC holds sway at the federal level.

The party was reacting to the defection of Maharazu Faru, representing Maradun II constituency in the State House of Assembly.

Faru, who joined the APC together with PDP executives in the five wards among others, hinged his defection on Gov. Dauda Lawal’s inability to meet his campaign promises.

‘Dauda failed to address challenges ranging from insecurity which is the main reason people voted for him,’ the lawmaker said.

However, the PDP said it was not perturbed by Faru’s excuses for his action.

‘The PDP under the able leadership of Dr Jamil Jibo Magayaki has noted the defection of Hon. Marahazu Faru, member representing Maradun II Constituency in the State House of Assembly, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

‘While we respect his personal choice, we are not surprised.

‘History has shown that those who put personal interest above the collective will of the people often find themselves on the wrong side of history.

‘The PDP remains the only party with genuine commitment to the rescue and rebuilding of Zamfara State,’ he said.

He said Gov. Dauda Lawal’s leadership was steadily restoring hope, rebuilding institutions, and securing the lives and livelihoods of the Zamfara people.

‘The ongoing reforms and development initiatives are clear proof that the PDP is the party of progress and compassion.

‘We are confident that Hon. Faru will soon regret his decision, as the people of Zamfara have already made up their minds to stand firmly with the PDP.

‘Come the next elections, our party will win overwhelmingly at all levels -from the wards to the national stage because the PDP remains the true party of the masses.

‘We call on our members and supporters to remain steadfast and proud. No defection can shake our foundation or stop the will of the people.

‘The PDP remains strong, united, and deeply rooted in the hearts of Zamfara people,’ the statement said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the PDP still maintains majority with 14 members while the APC now has 10 lawmakers in the State House of Assembly.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)