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Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has cautioned political critics and commentators against turning security matters into a political tool, warning that such behaviour could undermine efforts to restore peace across the state.

Aliyu gave the warning on Friday in Silame Local Government Area while concluding his first round of condolence visits to communities affected by recent bandit attacks.

‘Security issues are very sensitive and fragile, and therefore must be handled with utmost care,’ the governor said.

He condemned those using insecurity as a means of political point-scoring, describing the act as ‘dangerous and unpatriotic.’

Aliyu explained that his administration, in partnership with security agencies, had intensified operations in troubled areas and that the results were already becoming evident.

The governor also frowned at the activities of local informants aiding bandits, disclosing plans to forward a bill to the State House of Assembly prescribing severe penalties for anyone caught collaborating with criminals.

‘We will not fold our arms and watch a few individuals sabotage the collective peace of our people,’ he warned, urging residents to support security agencies with credible intelligence.

Aliyu reaffirmed his administration’s continued logistical and operational support for security agencies, assuring that the government would sustain the effort until normalcy was fully restored.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by his media aide, Abubakar Bawa, the governor distributed ?66 million and 165 bags of rice to families of the 33 victims killed in the Silame attack – each bereaved family receiving ?2 million and five bags of rice.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has charged young people in the State to take advantage of emerging business opportunities provided by his administration to actualise their entrepreneurial dreams, warning that entitlement mentality and lack of prudence are obstacles to growth.

Governor Eno gave the charge on Friday, at the opening ceremony of the 2025 edition of Ibom Ignite Conference, themed ‘Ignite to Accelerate’, held at the Ibom-LED Centre, Uyo.

The Governor, who initiated the programme in 2017 while serving in church leadership, said Ibom Ignite was borne out of a desire to inspire young people towards self-development and enterprise.

He described the conference as a platform to challenge youths to break away from dependency and cultivate the discipline of business prudence.

Recounting his own experience, Governor Eno said he started the Royalty Group in 1995 with just five rooms and grew it into a thriving business empire, which he considers a model of the Akwa Ibom entrepreneurial spirit.

‘I am a true Akwa Ibom brand. When you talk of an Akwa Ibom brand, see me standing here,’ the Governor declared, while urging youths to emulate his example by starting small and nurturing their vision with consistency.

He recalled how his early passion led him to write the book ‘Wealth Creation: God’s Way’, which he used in mentoring youths on hard work and vision. He explained that the same drive birthed Ibom Ignite, which has since inspired a culture of entrepreneurship among young people in the State.

‘I was tired of seeing young people angry, entitled, and waiting as if the world owed them something. We must change that mindset. If you believe in a dream, live for it, avoid distractions, and don’t be discouraged by critics. Those who doubt you today will applaud you tomorrow,’ he said.

The Governor further stressed that passion remains the fuel for success, advising participants to develop clear goals and pursue them with courage.

‘You must have a passion for something. Something must be driving you, and if you are pursuing it, stay focused,’ he told the gathering.

Speaking on governance, Eno noted that while leadership is vital, responsible followership is equally critical for progress. ‘Everything rises and falls on leadership, but we must begin to look at followership too. A leader can have good intentions, but without the right followership, intentions will fail,’ he observed.

He urged youths not to waste the emerging business opportunities provided by his administration through Ibom-LED and other empowerment programmes, noting that his generation lacked such platforms and had to struggle without government intervention.

Earlier in his keynote address, Chief Executive Officer of Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services, Obafemi Banigbe, said Akwa Ibom has all it takes to become Nigeria’s hub for technology, sports, agriculture, and economic growth. He, however, emphasized that vision, investment in human capital, and deliberate action are necessary to unlock such potentials.

Banigbe charged young people to think beyond the cliché of being ‘leaders of tomorrow’ and instead position themselves as ‘builders of tomorrow.’ He advised them to focus on making impact rather than chasing headlines, and to embrace collaboration over unhealthy competition.

Also speaking, the General Secretary of the Assemblies of God Nigeria, Rev. Godwin Akpan Amaowoh, encouraged participants to start small and grow steadily, while remembering those who supported them along the way. He cautioned against gambling with time and resources.

In his welcome remarks, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Pastor Imo-Abasi Jacob, described the 2025 theme as both symbolic and instructive, explaining that every great leap begins with ignition, a spark of passion, purpose, and possibility.

Other speakers expected at the two-day conference include Deputy Country Director of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, Obinaju Uchenna; Senior Special Assistant on Digital and New Media to the Presidency, O’tega Ogra; Rector of Dakadda Skills Acquisition Centre, Prof. Enoidem Usoro; and CEO of Corporate Shepherd Ltd, Idorenyen Enang.

Also billed to speak are Ubotex CEO, Ubong Obot; Sole Administrator of Ibom Paints Ltd, Ime Uwah; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Akparawa James Edet; and Guinness World Records Holder, broadcaster and writer, George Iniabasi Essien.

The conference is expected to feature paper presentations, panel sessions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire Akwa Ibom youths to ignite passion, accelerate growth, and build enterprises with global relevance.

Flights have resumed at Munich Airport after drone sightings forced Germany’s second-busiest airport to suspend operations for the second time in 24 hours.

The airport said flights were stopped at 21:30 local time (20:30 GMT) on Friday, affecting around 6,500 passengers. At least 17 flights were grounded the previous day after drones were spotted near the airfield.

Munich Airport said on Saturday morning that operations had ‘gradually resumed’ but warned passengers of ongoing delays.

Travellers were urged to check flight updates before heading to the airport.

Authorities have not identified where the drones came from or who operated them. Reports in Belgium said 15 drones were seen above the Elsenborn military site near the German border before crossing into German airspace and being spotted by police in Dren.

Germany’s Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, said he would raise the issue of anti-drone defences at a meeting of European interior ministers and plans to fast-track legislation allowing police to request military help to shoot down drones.

The latest incident comes amid a surge in drone sightings across Europe. Airports in Copenhagen and Oslo have also suspended flights after drones were detected near restricted zones.

European leaders met in Copenhagen this week to discuss a coordinated response, including a proposed ‘drone wall’ to detect and destroy hostile drones.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the frequency of airspace incursions was increasing, calling it ‘reasonable to assume the drones are coming from Russia.’

Moscow has denied involvement, and Danish authorities say there is no evidence linking Russia to the incidents.

Speaking in Sochi on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the claims with a joke: ‘I won’t do it again. I won’t do it again – not to France or Denmark or Copenhagen.’

The 6th edition of the Delta State Strategic Communication Workshop (DELCOM 2025) is to be declared open in Asaba on Monday by the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

The workshop, which is expected to attract top government officials and academia, will highlight the importance of strategic communication in governance, enhancing effective media engagements by leveraging artificial intelligence and digital tools, and various techniques to project government policies and programmes in line with the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, the statement added.

A statement on Saturday by the State Coordinator of DELCOM and Director-General, Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Barr (Dr) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, said Governor Oborevwori will deliver a keynote address that would resonate with the workshop theme, ‘Strategic Communication in the Digital Age: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Effective Leadership.’

According to the Bureau Chief, DELCOM 2025, in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM), is designed to equip media appointees, notable social media influencers, professional bloggers and media partners with the necessary skills to project the policies, programmes and achievements of the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, and his administration, leveraging digital tools for effective and result-oriented media engagements.

Dr Oghenesivbe further disclosed that the President of the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM), Ambassador (Dr) Mrs Temile Uduogho Oritseweyinmi, will on Day 3 of the workshop induct some participants as members and fellows of the Institute, while certificates of participation duly signed by the Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, will be presented to the trainers and all DELCOM 2025 participants.

‘Seasoned communication scholar and Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Professor Joyce Ogwezi, is the Chief Trainer, to be assisted by Professor Presley Obukoadata of Delta State University, Abraka, and Artificial Intelligence/ICT expert, Dr Monday Ashibogwu, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

‘DELCOM 2025 is partnering with the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM). The Institute’s Council Chairman and President, Ambassador (Dr) Mrs Temile Uduogho Oritseweyinmi, will be assisted by the Council Secretary/CIISM Registrar, Dr Adelanke Oyintoke, to induct new members and fellows of the Institute,’ Oghenesivbe said.

The Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested five suspected illegal miners and seized nine motorcycles, in addition to other exhibits, during a raid in Katcha Local Government Area of the state.

Parading the suspects at the command’s headquarters in Minna on Friday, October 3, 2025, the State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, sent a passionate appeal to traditional rulers, political leaders, and community members to intensify public awareness on the dangers and legal implications of engaging in illegal mining activities.

He stated further that the suspects were apprehended at Zuzungi community, near Kataeregi, along Minna- Bida road while mining monoxide solid minerals worth several millions of naira.

He said, ‘Acting on credible intelligence around 24:00 hours, the mining marshals of the NSCDC stormed the site and arrested the suspects while in the act’.

Subaru commended the operatives for their ‘resilience, commitment, vigilance, and professionalism’ during the operation, emphasising that illegal mining activities amount to economic sabotage against the nation.

The Commandant reiterated the Corps’ commitment to protecting Niger State’s natural resources from unlawful exploitation, maintaining law and order, and collaborating with other security agencies to curb crimes across the state.

‘We will continue to make Niger State a difficult zone for illegal mining, vandalism, and other social vices,’ he assured.

Suberu also commended the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, and Nthe iger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, for their support in promoting peace and stability in the state.

He said investigations were ongoing, stressing that further updates would be released to the general public upon conclusion of the investigation.

The Zamfara state ministry of health, through the state Primary Health Care Board (PHCB), has assured to reach over 10,000 settlements with Measles, Rubella and Polio vaccination in the state.

This was disclosed on Saturday in Gusau by the state commissioner of health, Dr Nafisa Mohammed Maradun, during a media dialogue with journalists in the state.

The commissioner of health, represented by the Executive Secretary, Primary Healthcare Board, Dr Hussaini Yakubu Anka, urged people to accept the vaccines as it is important for healthy living.

The meeting was organised by the Zamfara state primary health care board, supported by UNICEF, on a strategic media dialogue with journalists, social media influencers, and U-reporters focusing on an integrated campaign for Measles, Rubella and Polio vaccination.

According to Dr Hussaini Yakubu, one thousand two hundred (1,200) teams were deployed across the 147 wards for a successful vaccination in the state.

‘We are here to tell the people to accept the vaccines, children should be allowed to be vaccinated, we also urge religious leaders to preach both in Mosques and churches the importance of vaccination,’ he stated.

He maintained that arrangements have been concluded to reach more than 10,000 settlements through the various teams

He appreciated the complementary efforts of the partners toward supporting the provision of quality healthcare delivery in the state.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained why he has never attempted to convince his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, to convert to Islam, stressing his belief in love, religious freedom, and mutual respect among people of different faiths.

Speaking on Saturday at the funeral service of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, Tinubu said his marriage to a Christian pastor has never created any conflict in their home.

The president, who arrived in Jos, Plateau State around 2 p.m. for the ceremony at the COCIN headquarters church, said he inherited Islam from his family and has always upheld the principle of freedom of religion.

He noted that both he and the First Lady serve the same God and would ultimately be answerable to Him, adding that what matters most are people’s deeds, character, and love for others.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace tolerance and peaceful coexistence, emphasising that hate should never have a place in the country.

He also prayed for the repose of the soul of the late Lydia Yilwada and asked God to grant comfort and blessings to those she left behind.

He said, ‘Hate is not an option for us. Love is what you preach, that we should love one another.

‘Nobody, nobody determines what God has ordained. God’s ordained action and his promises are what matter. I inherited Islam from my family. I didn’t change. But my wife is a pastor. She prays for me.

‘No conflict. And I never did at any single time try to convince her or convert her. I believe in the freedom of religion.

‘We are praying to the same God. We are answerable to the same almighty God. We will answer to him. We will account to him. Our deeds, our character, our love for our fellow beings are what are important.

‘May the almighty accept the soul of Lydia and give all that she left behind blessings and glory, so we say, may her soul rest in peace.’

The quiet crack of dawn is not just for early birds; it is also a prime time for breaking a sweat.

When the sun is barely up, the streets are quiet, and you are lacing up your sneakers before most people even roll out of bed, it is the best move to feel better. It might sound intense, but exercising before breakfast-often referred to as fasted cardio – has been gaining traction among health enthusiasts, athletes, and even everyday individuals who want to feel better.

Beyond just bragging rights, there is real science behind the benefits of exercising in the morning, especially on an empty stomach.

Interestingly, the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, in a 2024 report by Tribune Online, has encouraged Nigerians to engage in various forms of exercise to improve their health by reducing the prevalence of cardiovascular and other life-threatening diseases.

Exercising before breakfast is the best bet, although it is not one-size-fits-all. Some people feel dizzy, lightheaded, or too drained to push through. But many people are discovering that rolling out of bed and hitting the gym or even just the pavement before breakfast isn’t some hardcore trend; it’s backed by solid science. The benefits of exercising before breakfast reach far beyond burning calories; they touch nearly every corner of your health.

1. Burns Fat More Efficiently

When you wake up, your body’s glycogen, that is, the fuel from carbs, is already low after hours of fasting overnight. That means your system turns to stored fat for energy.

A study in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that people who exercised before eating torched nearly 20% more fat than those who ate first. If fat loss is on your mind, morning workouts can make a real difference without extra gimmicks.

According to one review, 10 weeks of resistance training (exercise) could increase resting calorie burn by 7% and reduce body fat by 4 pounds (1.8 kg). Performing weightlifting exercises or using fitness equipment are simple ways to start strength training.

2. Regulates Blood Sugar and Insulin

Exercising before breakfast doesn’t just burn fat: it helps your body handle sugar better. Research in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that early workouts improve insulin sensitivity. Exercise is another important part of managing diabetes. When you move and get active, your muscles use blood sugar for energy.

Also, regular physical activity helps your body use insulin better. It works to lower your blood sugar level. The more strenuous your workout, the longer the effect lasts. But even light activities can improve your blood sugar level. Light activities include housework, gardening, and walking. Your body processes carbs more effectively throughout the day, keeping blood sugar stable and energy crashes at bay. That’s a huge win for anyone managing weight or fighting off that mid-morning slump.

3. Sharpens Focus and Mood

A good workout can flip that switch, making mornings less sluggish. When you exercise, your brain releases dopamine and endorphins: chemicals that boost mood, reduce stress, and sharpen focus. People who exercise before breakfast often describe feeling alert, upbeat, and ready to tackle tasks that usually feel like a drag. This helps remote workers as it is like giving the brain a morning espresso shot, minus the jitters.

4. Builds Consistency and Discipline

Once your day gets going, excuses creep in: work meetings, traffic, unexpected calls-they all eat into workout time. Exercising before breakfast takes those excuses off the table. By making fitness your priority, you build consistency.

Over time, it becomes second nature, just like brushing your teeth. And nothing beats the quiet satisfaction of knowing you’ve crushed a workout before most people even hit snooze.

5. Trains Your Body for Endurance

Working out on an empty stomach or exercising before breakfast teaches your muscles to adapt by using fat as a steady energy source. Athletes call this ‘metabolic flexibility.’ A review in Sports Medicine pointed out that fasted training improves mitochondrial function, the little power plants inside your cells that fuel movement. This grants better endurance and performance during longer or tougher workouts.

6. Curbs Appetite and Supports Weight Management

If you’ve ever thought that skipping breakfast before exercise will make you hungrier later, here’s the twist: studies say otherwise. Research in the Appetite Journal found that people who worked out before breakfast actually consumed fewer calories throughout the day. Pair that with more fat burned during the workout, and you’ve got a sustainable formula for managing weight without feeling deprived.

7. Promotes Better Sleep at Night

The most underrated perk is better sleep. Early morning workouts sync with your body’s natural rhythm, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest. Evening workouts, especially intense ones, can sometimes leave you too wired to relax. So, by moving your sweat session to sunrise, you’re setting yourself up for quality shut-eye when bedtime rolls around.

8. Sets a Positive Tone for the Day

Exercising before breakfast is not just about calories or muscles; it is about mindset. When you tackle a workout before breakfast, you’ve already accomplished something big before most people pour their first cup of coffee.

That momentum often spills into healthier choices throughout the day, whether it’s picking a balanced lunch or staying focused at work.

The benefits of exercising before breakfast are more than hype: they are grounded in science and proven by experience. Ranging from burning fat and stabilizing blood sugar to improving focus, endurance, and sleep, early workouts pack a serious punch. And while the discipline to wake up early isn’t easy, the payoff can be life-changing.

When someone is grieving, the whole community often wants to help. It’s a kind thing to do, but it can be overwhelming for the person who is hurting.

It’s hard to know what to say or do, and even with good intentions, some actions can cause more pain instead of comfort. This is why the rules of grief etiquette must apply.

Here are some simple ways to support someone who is grieving:

1. Say less, do more

Sometimes, a simple ‘I’m sorry for your loss’ or ‘I’m here for you’ is the most powerful thing you can say. Avoid clichés like ‘be strong’ or ‘don’t cry,’ as they can make it seem like you’re dismissing their feelings. Grief needs space, not quick solutions.

Instead of just saying, ‘Let me know if you need anything,’ offer specific help. Grieving people are usually too overwhelmed to ask. You could offer to cook a meal, help with chores, or take care of their kids for a while.

2. Respect their wishes

Everyone grieves differently. Some people want company and a lot of noise, while others need quiet time and space.

You should pay attention to how they’re acting and respect their need for privacy. Don’t be offended if they ask for time alone; it’s a part of their healing process.

Remember that grief doesn’t end after a few days or weeks. After the initial period of support has passed, the reality of the loss can feel even more difficult.

So, follow up on them in the following weeks and months. A simple call, text, or visit can remind them that you still care and that they’re not alone. This right here is an important role of grief etiquette.

3. Be sincere and present

When you visit them, don’t feel the need to have to fill every silence with conversation. Sometimes, just sitting quietly with them is the deepest form of comfort.

Listen more than you talk, and let your presence show that you care. Being there sincerely, with an open heart, is what matters most.

Above all, thinking about grief etiquette isn’t about following strict rules; it’s about being thoughtful, present, and kind.

When we show up with care, we help ease their burden a little and become a part of their healing.

The Kebbi State Government, in its determination to eradicate banditry across the state’s rural areas, has on Friday donated patrol vehicles to the Nigerian Army stations in the state to fight banditry and strengthen their operational capacity.

Six Hilux vans and 30 rugged motorcycles to traverse difficult terrain were handed over to the Army by Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi.

It is worth recalling that previously, the government donated 100 Hilux vehicles to security agencies and 1,000 motorcycles to Vigilante members to sharpen the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality in the state.

At the ceremony, Governor Idris expressed delight about the successes recorded by the security services in restoring normalcy and security to places facing the challenges of insecurity.

‘Kebbi State Government is thankful to the Army and the Air Force for prompt response to emergencies anywhere in Kebbi State.’

‘Kebbi is also grateful to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff for deploying armoured vehicles to the state.

‘We are similarly appreciative of the Chief of Naval Staff for establishing a Naval Base in Yauri.

‘Issues of security must have input from State Governments nationwide, because the Federal Government cannot do it without collective action,’ he said.

In his speech, the Commander, 8 Division Tactical Command, Birnin Kebbi, Colonel Hussaini Rabi’u Toro, who received the keys to the vehicles, thanked the Governor for placing a premium on security matters in the state.

‘Sir, the Army appreciates this generous donation from you to support our combat services, aimed at enhancing operational capacity and response to any threat to the lives and property of law-abiding citizens,’ he said.