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A senator representing Lagos West District, Dr Idiat Adebule, has urged the Lagos State House of Assembly to fast track the passage of the Lagos Innovation Bill.

This, she said, would provide a legal framework to anchor research that will facilitate collaboration between the industry and academics.

She said this on Wednesday while delivering keynote address at the Lagos State University (LASU) 7th Research Trade fair, themed, ‘Promoting the Quadruple Helix Collaboration: Government, University, Industry and Community’ at the Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, Ojo.

She added that the bill when signed into law ‘will create a research and innovation fund to cater for innovation hubs, technology parks and provides incentives for doctoral and post-doctoral research activities.’

She also said the determination of Lagos and Nigeria’s future will be by innovation and collaboration, not natural resources.

She said: ‘The future of Lagos and Nigeria will not be determined by our exhaustible natural resources, but by how well we can innovate, collaborate and scale solutions using our resources’.

Adebule urged the government, industry captains, academics and community stakeholders to seize the opportunity of the event to build an innovation ecosystem that will not only make Lagos and Nigeria not just Africa’s economic hub, but it’s knowledge and innovation capital.

She said research findings must be used to solve societal challenges; else, they will only remain trapped within the institutions.

She gave an example of how the Bell Lab’s Research Institute churned out laser, solar cell, mobile communications and internet.

This, she said, shows that those who embraced research, innovation and creativity rise to prominence while those who ignored them fade into obscurity.

LASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, in her welcome address, said the annual fair is more than just an academic exercise.

She said: ‘It is the manifestation of our deepest institutional commitment: to move beyond theoretical knowledge and translate our research into tangible solutions that drive development. We will showcase groundbreaking work across engineering, medicine, the humanities, and the sciences projects, designed to solve real-world problems facing Lagos, Nigeria, in pursuit of our vision.

‘This year’s theme is particularly poignant. It is recognition that no single entity can tackle the complexities of sustainable development alone.’

She said that in LASU, it is understood that research only achieved its maximum impact when it is grounded in the needs of the community.

‘The community is the ultimate beneficiary, the source of vital data, and the final adopter of innovation. The university generates knowledge and talent. Industry commercialises the innovation and creates jobs. Government provides the enabling policy, regulation, and funding environment, and the community provides the context, demands the solution, and validates its utility,’ she said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied breaching any judgment of the Federal High Court that directed it to recognise the executive of the Action Alliance (AA) elected on October 7, 2023, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In a statement issued by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, INEC stated that it had fully complied with the court’s directive.

Olumekun also clarified that there was no existing court order authorizing the arrest of the Commission’s immediate past Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

‘Our attention has been drawn to media reports claiming that the Federal High Court, Osogbo, Osun State, on September 29, 2025, ordered the arrest of former INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for allegedly disobeying its judgment in a case involving the Action Alliance (AA),’ the statement read.

‘The Commission wishes to categorically state that it has not violated any court order and has fully complied with the judgment concerning the Action Alliance’s leadership,’ Olumekun added.

‘But the misleading reports mischievously omitted the Commission’s subsequent action on the case, erroneously portrayed the matter involving a corporate entity, namely INEC, as an individual affair and gave the wrong impression that the Court gave a fresh order after the initial pronouncement made on 29th September.

‘In line with its long-established tradition of always obeying court judgements and orders, the Commission on Monday 6th October 2025, which was still within the deadline, filed processes at the Federal High Court, Oshogbo to show that we had complied with its judgement and order of recognising the Action Alliance’s (AA) executive elected on 7th October 2023 at Abeokuta, Ogun State.

‘The dashboard of the Commission’s web site showing compliance was tendered as evidence.

‘However, when the judgement creditors filed a counter affidavit to complain that the Commission partially complied by listing the names of only four national executives without the National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje, the Commission responded by attaching the Notice of Appeal filed by the same Omoaje at the Supreme Court, challenging the judgement of the Court of Appeal sacking him as the National Chairman of the party.

‘The judgement of the Court of Appeal is superior to that of the federal high court, hence, the Commission cannot list Omoaje’s name as the Chairman of the Action Alliance party when the judgement of the Appeal Court is still subsisting.

‘We appeal to media organisations to fact-check their reports before publication to avoid misleading the public’.

Meanwhile, the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and the Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organisations for Elections (CECOE) has concluded its working visit to the commission.

Speaking at a farewell dinner for! The visiting delegation, Acting Chairman of INEC, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, expressed appreciation to the Ethiopian delegation for selecting Nigeria as their preferred destination for the study tour, describing the engagement as mutually beneficial.

She said ‘I want to thank you all for coming to our country. Abuja is a beautiful city surrounded by hills and greenery, and I hope you will find time to visit again. We share many similarities as large, diverse nations committed to deepening democracy. Though we have unique experiences, we are all learning from one another.’

She commended the immediate past INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for his dedication to strengthening the Commission through technological innovation and institutional reform and expressed optimism that the lessons shared during the visit would further support the growth and independence of Ethiopia’s electoral processes.

‘We hope that all you have learnt here will contribute positively to the advancement of democratic practices in your country. Please enjoy the evening, the music, and our cuisine. Abuja is full of life and beauty.’

Responding on behalf of the visiting delegation, the Deputy Chairman of NEBE, Mr. Tesfaye Niwai, conveyed his gratitude to INEC for the warm reception and fruitful engagements during the study visit.

‘This is my first time in Nigeria, and it has been an exceptional experience,’ he stated. ‘Nigeria’s diversity, energy, and democratic strength are inspiring. Our expectations have been fully met. We have gained valuable insights into INEC’s structure, its legal framework, and its strategies for inclusivity, planning, and stakeholder engagement.’

He noted that the lessons learned from the visit would inform ongoing reforms in Ethiopia’s electoral system and strengthen collaboration between both institutions.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has called for stronger youth involvement and the use of local languages in public health messaging to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of Nigeria’s most serious health threats.

Speaking at the launch of the SayAMR Language Hackathon in Abuja on Friday, he said effective communication is vital in public health, especially as Nigeria enters the Lassa fever season.

He emphasised the need for timely and culturally relevant communication to protect communities.

The SayAMR Language Hackathon, organised by NCDC in collaboration with DRASA Health Trust, the Centre for Infection Control and Patient Safety, the University of Lagos, and the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, seeks to develop local AMR terms in Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Pidgin English to enhance grassroots understanding.

He said youth must be central to Nigeria’s health response, describing AMR as a complex but silent killer that threatens health security, food safety, and the economy.

The government, he explained, is implementing the National Action Plan on AMR (2024-2028) anchored on prevention, stewardship, and communication under the One Health approach linking human, animal, and environmental health.

‘This hackathon highlights the power of language in public health, because what we cannot say, we cannot fight,’ he said, adding that Nigeria’s 500-plus languages are assets for reaching communities.

Drawing from past HIV/AIDS campaigns, he said, when people could describe diseases in familiar words, stigma was reduced and action followed.

Through the SayAMR initiative, he urged young linguists, artists, and health professionals to create relatable AMR expressions that inspire action.

‘When a market woman in Aba or a daughter in Katsina can describe AMR in her language, we will begin to win the fight,’ he said.

Professor Haruna Andrew, Secretary-General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors, described language as a bridge between culture and education, saying the programme models collaboration between academia and public health.

Dr. Tochi Okwor, Head of Disease Prevention at NCDC and Chair of Nigeria’s AMR Coordinating Committee, said the initiative reinforces the need to communicate AMR in indigenous languages to strengthen public understanding.

She explained that many Nigerians struggle to grasp AMR because there are no local words for it, making translation essential for effective engagement.

‘By translating AMR concepts into major Nigerian languages, we can empower farmers, traders, and communities to understand how resistance spreads and why rational antibiotic use matters,’ she said.

World Health Organization Technical Officer for AMR and One Health, Dr. Chavan Laxmikant, commended the initiative as innovative and timely.

Comparing India and Nigeria, he said multilingual contexts make English-only campaigns ineffective.

‘Misuse of antibiotics begins in communities where people demand them unnecessarily. This hackathon will help communities understand what AMR is and their role in stopping it,’ he said, noting that more than 60,000 Nigerians die annually from AMR.

Dr. Ayodele Majekodunmi, Project Lead for the World Bank-funded Health Security Programme for West and Central Africa under WOAH, said AMR is a cross-border challenge requiring regional collaboration.

He praised the hackathon for engaging youth and empowering communities with accurate and culturally relevant knowledge.

Chidinma Ibe, Head of the Infection Prevention and Control Programme at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), said community engagement and culturally tailored messaging are vital to containing AMR.

Translating scientific information into local languages, she said, improves understanding and encourages infection prevention practices at the grassroots.

Niniola Williams, Managing Director of DRASA Health Trust, said the hackathon merges science, creativity, and community to address one of Nigeria’s most urgent health challenges.

She noted that infections continue to disrupt lives and weaken the health system, emphasizing that most are preventable.

She said DRASA, founded in memory of Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh, continues her legacy of courage and prevention, ‘The SayAMR Hackathon expands that vision by showing that prevention is not just about medicine or policy but also about how we communicate.

‘How we speak about AMR determines how people understand and act on it,’ she said.

Williams commended NCDC, the Committee of Vice-Chancellors, and other partners for supporting efforts to make AMR prevention a national movement that reaches every home, market, and classroom.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the people of Ekiti State to support the African Democratic Party (ADC) ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship poll.

Atiku said the ADC was ready to rescue Ekiti people from the shackles of alleged maladministration,saying the party has what it takes to transform the state and put it on the path of greatness and prosperity.

The former Vice President spoke while receiving a frontline ADC governorship aspirant, Prince Adeyinka Alli in his residence in Abuja ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.

The ADC Chieftain expressed confidence in Alli’s leadership capacity, describing him as a vibrant and determined young politician capable of giving Ekiti a new direction.

Atiku who commended the Alli’s courage, vision, and track record in public service and humanitarian work, describing him as a refreshing face in Ekiti politics.

He explained his decision to meet the governorship hopeful was influenced by his credentials and commitment to humanitarian services, which he said align with the ADC’s vision for reform and inclusive governance.

Atiku said: ‘Ekiti has gotten a new face, ADC is a party that practises transitional politics. I’m encouraging young people, women, to come in because ADC is the young bride in town.

‘Alli is the first person I’m meeting that wants to contest for any political office in Ekiti under ADC. I saw your CV and it’s very okay, that’s why I said I want to see you.

‘You did well, I like your boldness and determination. I have other appointments with international personnel but I have to suspend that to attend to you and I believe that with you, Ekiti is safe in your hands under ADC’, he added.

Alli, who declared his ambition at his country home of Itapa-Ekiti in Oye Local Government Area, said he has the capacity to transform the state.

‘Through transparency, accountability, and technology-driven governance, we will build a government that listens, serves, and delivers. This is the promise of Progress Together, a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

‘My dear people of Ekiti, this journey is not mine alone; it is ours. It is the dream of every mother who prays for her child’s future, every farmer who tills the soil with hope, and every young person who dares to believe in a brighter tomorrow. Let us rise together to write a new chapter for our beloved state,’ he said.

Entertainer Mr. Jollof has expressed concerns about the high performance fees charged by Nigerian music artists, calling them ‘unrealistic’.

He warned, via Instagram story, that it could negatively impact the festive season’s celebrations.

Mr. Jollof urged artists to reconsider their rates, showing empathy towards fans and event organisers struggling with high expenses.

According to him, the current trend could make it difficult for promoters and fans to enjoy the usual excitement of December events.

Mr. Jollof emphasised the need for balance and understanding between artists and event organisers, encouraging the entertainment industry to work together to maintain the festive spirit.

He reminded artists that music is about connection and celebration, particularly during December festivities.

‘Dear Nigerian music artists, the current rate of billing is becoming unrealistic. If it continues, this festive season might not deliver the energy we expect.

‘Fans promoters and communities are struggling with costs, there will be a justification to pay such high amounts. Please let’s be reasonable so December can remain a season of joy, not disappointment,’ he said.

The Nigerian Army has urged the media to join forces with the military to checkmate terrorists’ propaganda and prevent enemies of the state from eroding public trust and troops’ morale with falsehood.

The acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, said this at the closing ceremony of the combined third and fourth quarters’ training seminar for the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) yesterday in Abuja.

She said the current counter-insurgency/counter-terrorism campaign cannot be won by firepower alone, but by also mastering the dissemination of credible information.

The seminar, with the theme: Enhancing Responsible Media Reportage of Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment for Enhanced National Security, was attended by army officers, sister services, security and intelligence agencies, as well as defence correspondents.

Anele noted that propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation have become dangerous weapons in the hands of terrorists and other non-state actors.

The Army spokesperson said this was the reason the media must work with the military to cushion the effects of these propaganda devices on national security.

She said: ‘Over the past days, we have engaged in rigorous discussions, insightful presentations, and stimulating exchanges that have sharpened our perspectives on the vital interface between the military and the media in safeguarding our nation.

‘The issues dissected in this seminar have underscored a clear truth, that in today’s complex security environment, the battle is not won by firepower alone, but equally by the mastery of information. Propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation have become dangerous weapons in the hands of terrorists, secessionists, economic saboteurs, and their collaborators.

‘Our collective task is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust, weaken national morale or undermine the sacrifices of our gallant troops who daily confront enemies of our state.’

The spokesperson stressed that the Nigerian Army remained unwavering in its constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.

‘Yet, to achieve lasting victory, the cooperation of the media is indispensable. You are not bystanders in this fight; you are strategic partners whose words and reports shape perception, build resilience, and mobilise public support for the armed forces,’ Anele said.

The Army spokesperson explained that the seminar was organised to provide a platform for deepening the partnership between the Army and the media, strengthening mutual trust and charting a clear path for more responsible, balanced and conflict-sensitive reportage.

She urged the participants to translate the lessons they learnt into action, in the newsroom, on the field, or in various deployments.

‘It is only by doing so that the enemies of the country can be denied the oxygen of propaganda,’ Anele said.

As the world marks World Mental Health Day on October 10, the Changed Foundation seeks urgent attention to the plight of millions of Nigerians suffering in silence due to stigma, poor funding, and a lack of professional care.

The UK-based non-profit enjoined the federal, state and local governments, civil society, communities, and other stakeholders to treat mental wellness and physical health the same way.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 40 million Nigerians-a staggering 20% of the population-live with a mental health disorder.

However, nearly 80% of those cannot access proper care, a crisis worsened by the fact that Nigeria has one of the world’s lowest ratios of mental health professionals. Only about 350 psychiatrists serve over 200 million people.

Changed Foundation founder, Scholastica Onumonu, said: ‘Mental health is treatable and nothing to be ashamed of. Unfortunately, cultural misconceptions and stigma often compel sufferers to seek traditional or spiritual healing instead of medical care.’

To mark the 2025 Mental Health Day, the NGO launched ‘Mind Matters Nigeria,’ a campaign to raise awareness, promote early help-seeking, and enhance community efforts through policy roundtables, personal storytelling, and educational materials.

‘Mental health doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone,’ Onumonu noted. ‘But help is available, recovery is possible, and no one needs to suffer in silence. Every Nigerian deserves the right to be heard, treated, and supported.’

‘Seeking help early saves lives, reduces suffering, and strengthens communities. Together, we can end stigma, assist one another, and build healthier, more resilient societies,’ the humanitarian added.

Onumonu urged the government to implement the National Mental Health Act (2021/2023), expand mental health services to primary health centres, encourage professionals with incentives, conduct awareness campaigns, as well as workplace and school programs.

On the humanitarian situation in Plateau State, she described the cycle of violence as ‘one of Nigeria’s most enduring ethno-religious and communal crises. Any genuine attempt at reconciliation must be anchored on fairness and truth.’

Health please and send link

As the world marks World Mental Health Day on October 10, the Changed Foundation seeks urgent attention to the plight of millions of Nigerians suffering in silence due to stigma, poor funding, and a lack of professional care.

The UK-based non-profit enjoined the federal, state and local governments, civil society, communities, and other stakeholders to treat mental wellness and physical health the same way.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 40 million Nigerians-a staggering 20% of the population-live with a mental health disorder.

However, nearly 80% of those cannot access proper care, a crisis worsened by the fact that Nigeria has one of the world’s lowest ratios of mental health professionals. Only about 350 psychiatrists serve over 200 million people.

Changed Foundation founder, Scholastica Onumonu, said: ‘Mental health is treatable and nothing to be ashamed of. Unfortunately, cultural misconceptions and stigma often compel sufferers to seek traditional or spiritual healing instead of medical care.’

To mark the 2025 Mental Health Day, the NGO launched ‘Mind Matters Nigeria,’ a campaign to raise awareness, promote early help-seeking, and enhance community efforts through policy roundtables, personal storytelling, and educational materials.

‘Mental health doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone,’ Onumonu noted. ‘But help is available, recovery is possible, and no one needs to suffer in silence. Every Nigerian deserves the right to be heard, treated, and supported.’

‘Seeking help early saves lives, reduces suffering, and strengthens communities. Together, we can end stigma, assist one another, and build healthier, more resilient societies,’ the humanitarian added.

Onumonu urged the government to implement the National Mental Health Act (2021/2023), expand mental health services to primary health centres, encourage professionals with incentives, conduct awareness campaigns, as well as workplace and school programs.

On the humanitarian situation in Plateau State, she described the cycle of violence as ‘one of Nigeria’s most enduring ethno-religious and communal crises. Any genuine attempt at reconciliation must be anchored on fairness and truth.’

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday disqualified a governorship aspirant, Kayode Ojo, from participating in the October 27 primary.

The highest administrative organ also dissolved the Enugu State Executive Committee of the party, ahead of the expected defection of Governor Peter Mbah from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling party.

A seven-man caretaker committee headed by the former state chairman, Ben Nwoye, was set up to steer the affairs of the chapter.

Following Ojo’s disqualification, only two aspirants – Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Omolayo Oluremi – will compete for the ticket at the shadow poll.

The party’s screening committee, led by Tunji Olawuyi, had previously given Ojo a provisional clearance and referred his case to the NWC.

It also disqualified the fourth aspirant, Abimbola Olajumoke Olawunmi, following petitions against her.

The panel said: ‘This referral is necessitated by the weight of the petitions against him, particularly his failure to satisfy the mandatory threshold of five valid nominators per local government, and is intended to forestall potential litigation(s) that may arise from this deficiency which is inconsistent with Article 9(1) of the Constitution, which provides that only registered and financially up-to-date members of the party have the right to vote and be voted for, and Section 177 )c) of 1999 Constitution (as amended), which requires membership of a political party as a pre-requisite for eligibility to contest the Office of Governor.’

The Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, told reporters at the end of the NWC meeting at the party secretariat in Abuja that the committee deliberated on the outcome of the screening of the four aspirants.

He said that two were cleared while two others were disqualified.

Meseko said: ‘The NWC at its 179th meeting also deliberated on the screening report of APC governorship elections. At the end of the meeting, the NWC cleared the incumbent Governor Abiodun Oyebanji and Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo to go for the primary, to stand for the primary elections, while the two other aspirants, Engineer Kayode Ojo and Mrs. Abimbola Olajumoke Olawunmi,were disqualified.’

‘The disqualification of these two people was predicated on the fact that they did not conform with the provisions of the constitution of the party and also the extant provisions of the electoral act.’

Ojo: I respect NWC verdict:

Ojo, Pro-Chancellor of University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), said he accepted the judgment of the NWC, stressing that the party is supreme.

He however, expressed hope that the NWC will review his case so that he can be on the ballot during the primary.

Enugu state committee dissolved:

On the dissolution of the Enugu State Working Committee, Meseko said the decision of the NWC was informed by the need to bring lasting solution to the protracted crisis rocking the chapter.

He said: ‘In the interest of progress, peace, stability and tranquility of the APC in Enugu State, the State Working Committee, also known as the State Executive Committee of the party, stands dissolved, and a new caretaker committee has been put in place.’

Members of the Nwoye led caretaker committee include Mrs. Fidelia Njeze, Comrade Peter Chime, Dr. Mrs. Obie Ajih, Dr. Chidoze Nwafor, Emma Ekeh, and Eugene Odoh, who will serve as secretary.

Meseko denied the insinuation that the dissolution of the Enugu SWC was to pave way for the defection of the governor.

He said: ‘The party has been receiving new members. More governors are coming, and I can tell you that the dissolution of Enugu APC state exco has nothing to do with the defection of the governor. Our action was for the peace and progress of the party.’

Meseko said the party’s reconciliation committee headed by Chief Bisi Akande and the Anambra State Governorship Campaign Council are to be inaugurated soon.

He also said the public hearing on the proposed amendment to the party’s constitution will commence later in the month in the nation’s geo-political zones.

It was a colorful and inspiring atmosphere in Abuja as Nigeria’s largest progressive grassroots media network, Tinubu Media Force (TMF), officially named Barrister Seyi Tinubu as its Grand Patron.

The event drew national attention as the group reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to championing the ideals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda across the federation.

Led by its national coordinator, Gbenga Abiola, alongside the national executives and the six regional coordinators, the Tinubu Media Force described the recognition as purpose-driven and well-deserved.

The occasion marked a new chapter for the group as it continues to expand its grassroots reach and consolidate its structure as a formidable communication powerhouse for the administration.

In his remarks, Gbenga Abiola lauded Seyi Tinubu for his humility, intelligence, and people-oriented disposition, describing him as one of the most approachable young politicians in Nigeria today.

He emphasised that Seyi’s leadership style mirrors that of his father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has consistently demonstrated capacity, sagacity, and doggedness in governance and leadership.

‘Tell me any son of a president, whether in history or at the moment, who has galvanized such an enormous grassroots base like Seyi Tinubu,’ Abiola stated. ‘He is approachable, empathetic, humble, detailed, and always ready to deliver. His intelligence academically, politically, and socially speaks volumes of his character and upbringing.’

The Tinubu Media Force further described Seyi Tinubu as the foundation and inspiration behind the creation of the group’s nationwide media structure.

According to the executives, his belief in youth inclusion and media empowerment has opened new opportunities for young people, grassroots journalists, and community voices to thrive under the Renewed Hope administration.

‘Seyi Tinubu believes so much in the ideology and leadership philosophy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’ Abiola added. ‘He remains a rallying point for millions of young Nigerians who share in the vision of a prosperous nation driven by innovation, integrity, and inclusion.’

Beyond his political and philanthropic engagements, Seyi Tinubu has earned widespread recognition as a visionary entrepreneur and youth development advocate. Through his initiatives such as Noella Foundation and his involvement in LSTV and Loatsad Promomedia, he has provided platforms for young Nigerians to express creativity, build businesses, and access mentorship opportunities that foster empowerment and self-reliance.

His commitment to social impact is evident through his consistent support for education, sports, and community-based projects across Nigeria. From school rehabilitation programs to youth mentorship drives and empowerment schemes, Seyi Tinubu has shown that leadership is not about title but about service, compassion, and creating pathways for others to succeed.

The group also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold reforms, visionary leadership, and steadfast pursuit of a prosperous Nigeria.

It described his administration as one determined to reposition the country across all sectors, from the economy to education, infrastructure, and governance, with policies that reflect true national rebirth and sustainable growth.

‘We appreciate the acceptance of Barrister Seyi Tinubu as our Grand Patron,’ Abiola concluded. ‘We pledge our total commitment to disseminating the achievements of this administration and amplifying the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda across every community in Nigeria.’

The event ended on a note of renewed optimism as the Tinubu Media Force reaffirmed its dedication to grassroots mobilization and strategic communication, ensuring that the message of hope, unity, and progress continues to resonate deeply among Nigerians at all levels.

In attendance where National Coordinator, Gbenga Abiola , Razak Jeje (Deputy Coordinator ), Jamiu Ademosu (National Secretary ), Razak Oyedeji (PRO), Jide Made (Director Finance), Itunoluwa Soniregun (Head of Programs). While the regional Coordinators include Khalid Tukur (North), Engr. Dr. Oluogun Mojeed (Southwest), Paul Fregege (South south), Idris Alooma (Noth central), Okorie Samason (South East), Jibrin Maasum (Northeast ).

Argentine football fans queued up Thursday to pay their respects to one of the national game’s greats, Boca Juniors deceased manager Miguel Angel Russo, at an emotional stadium send-off in Buenos Aires.

From the early hours of Thursday, long lines of supporters began filing past the coffin of the award-winning coach in the chapel of the club’s legendary Bombonera stadium.

The former international, who coached Boca Juniors three times and also had successful stints at Rosario Central and Estudiantes de la Plata, died Wednesday at the age of 69.

The club never gave details of his health, but Argentine media reported that Russo, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017 and whose health had deteriorated in recent weeks, had contracted an infection.

In June, he had agreed to coach Boca Juniors for a third time but had been absent from the sidelines since September 21.

His coffin was draped Thursday in the flags of both Boca and Estudiantes, the club where he spent his entire playing career.

‘Miguel gave his all for Boca, just like me,’ said 34-year-old Pasallo, who had the Boca crest tattooed on his right arm, alongside the phrase ‘from the cradle to the grave.’

‘We’re going to say goodbye like Boca fans do: with a party!’ said the street vendor, who was dressed from head to toe in the club’s blue and yellow. The mood at the stadium was more reflective than festive, however.

‘Forever in our hearts,’ read a Boca Juniors banner featuring Russo’s image, which hung in the stadium.

Russo was a coach for more than half his life and was talked up at one point as a potential manager for the national side after long stints with Boca Juniors, Rosario Central and Estudiantes de la Plata.

His trophy cabinet was not extensive, but he had a knack for reviving the fortunes of top teams.

Luis Conrado, a 67-year-old bricklayer, came to pay his respects from the town of Lanus, on the southern outskirts of Buenos Aires, where Russo made his coaching debut.

At Lanus, ‘he found us in the B division, rescued us, and returned us to glory. I’m here to thank him for that joy,’ Conrado said.

Russo’s first first-division title came with Velez Sarsfield in 2005.

Later, at Diego Maradona’s request, he was called on to manage Maradona’s boyhood club Boca Juniors, which he led to victory in the 2007 Copa Libertadores, his greatest achievement as a manager.

He also twice saved Rosario Central, with whom he won the League Cup in December 2023, from relegation and in 2017 led Colombian side Millonarios to a championship title one day after undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

At Estudiantes, where he played from 1975 to 1988, he formed part of one of the most memorable midfields in Argentine football, along with Alejandro Sabella, Marcelo Trobbiani, and Jose Daniel ‘Bocha’ Ponce.

He made the national team but, much to his disappointment, was not selected for the 1986 World Cup, which Argentina won.