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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.

Drinking water is key to optimal health and is essential. Your body is about 60 to 70 percent water, and water helps provide a balance of body fluids, keeps your skin looking healthy, assists your kidney health, and helps maintain normal bowel function.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights five health benefits of drinking water

1. Boosts memory and mood

Studies have shown that even slight dehydration can affect brain performance, leading to poor memory and mood changes in both children and adults. Proper hydration supports not just physical health but also mental well-being. In fact, inadequate water intake has been linked to increased anxiety and a higher likelihood of headaches or migraines in susceptible people.

2. Prevents constipation

Water plays an essential role in digestion by keeping bowel movements regular. Staying hydrated reduces the chances of constipation across all age groups, from children to the elderly.

3. Promotes urinary system health

Insufficient hydration may increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones or experiencing repeated episodes. Adequate water intake, on the other hand, helps lower the risk of bladder infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

4. Supports weight management

Drinking water before meals can help reduce food intake by creating a feeling of fullness. This natural appetite-suppressing effect may contribute to weight control and even weight loss in some individuals.

5. Helps in blood circulation

Our body plasma is around 90% water, so it can’t do its job properly if dehydrated. Without enough water, the blood will become thicker and more concentrated. This means the heart has to work that little bit harder to pump it around your body.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State says the South-West will not abandon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

The APC Spokesman, Mr Seye Oladejo, in a statement on Saturday in Lagos, was reacting to a comment credited to supporters of a PDP presidential aspirant, Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, that the South-West would not re-elect Tinubu in 2027.

Oladejo said that Olawepo-Hashim had never built a durable political structure nor demonstrated the electoral muscle required to win a national contest.

According to him, Tinubu will crush all gang-ups against his re-election in 2027.

Oladejo said, ‘Olawepo-Hashim is a perennial aspirant and convenient mascot for opposition desperation.

‘He (Olawepo-Hashim) may parade endorsements in tiny rallies and press statements, but endorsements on photocopied letterheads do not translate to votes.

‘In the unlikely event that he somehow emerges as the presidential candidate of the free-falling PDP – a party apparently bankrupt of depth in both human and material resources – he will be roundly beaten at the poll.

‘That is not bravado; it is political arithmetic. The PDP’s hollow theatrics and recycled claimants will not rescue a party that has for years relied on sentiment and nostalgia rather than competence and delivery.’

He said Olawepo-Hashim’s attempt to caricature the Tinubu administration’s record was ‘particularly distasteful and unacceptable.’

According to him, Tinubu’s administration is laying visible and irreversible foundations across infrastructure, education, agriculture, security, and fiscal reforms.

‘Those who traffic in selective statistics and currency rhetoric do so because they cannot defend the alternative: a return to the waste, arrogance, and economic mismanagement that nearly extinguished our nation’s potential.

‘Nigerians will not be hoodwinked into trading present progress for recycled excuses.

‘To the political jobbers behind this noise: stop insulting the intelligence of Lagos residents and Nigerians,’ he said.

He said that the opposition should not convert press releases into governance competence.

‘In 2027, voters will choose continuity with a president who has delivered direction and results – not the empty spectacle offered by political tourists.

‘The South-West will not abandon its own for a project of theatrical ambition without substance,’ he added.

The family of the late former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, has renewed its call for justice over his sudden and controversial death.

The Akingboye/Betiku family, who made this call after a meeting held in Okitipupa, headquarters of Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state, expressed sadness over the incident and reaffirmed confidence in the government and the police to unravel the mystery surrounding his death.

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the family described the late businessman as a man who rose from humble beginnings to become a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, but lamented the circumstances surrounding his death.

Family sources said the late Akingboye was last seen by his eldest son, Mr Samuel Akingboye, who visited him a day before his death.

He explained that the son, Samuel, who resides partly abroad, said he and his father had agreed to meet again the following day before the tragedy occurred.

He, however, explained that the 68-year-old businessman was found dead under suspicious circumstances at his Lagos residence.

He disclosed that the body of the late politician was reportedly discovered near the backyard leading to the boys’ quarters, with visible bruises on his face and arms, and blood-stained clothes.

According to him, at the time of the incident, the deceased’s second wife, Mrs Christianah Akingboye, four of her children, two of her siblings, and about 13 domestic staff were said to be at home with him in the compound.

Unconvinced by explanations from the household, Samuel reportedly petitioned the Lagos State Police Command, prompting the transfer of the case to the Homicide Department at Panti, Yaba, while several individuals, including family members and domestic workers, have been interrogated.

A Police source said forensic examinations and an autopsy report are being awaited to determine the exact cause of death, but the police have yet to issue a formal statement on their preliminary findings.

Meanwhile, the family commended Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his intervention and assurance that justice would not be compromised.

In a letter jointly signed by the heads of the two families, Papa Clement Betiku and Pastor Akintemi Michael Akingboye, the family thanked the governor for showing concern and pledged support for a transparent investigation.

The letter addressed to Aiyedatiwa read: ‘On behalf of the entire Akingboye/Betiku extended family, we write from Okitipupa to commend and wholeheartedly appreciate the governor’s leadership and commitment to ensuring that justice is done. Justice must be served without fear or favour, and no attempt to cover up this case will be tolerated.

‘The family is deeply concerned and determined to see this matter through to its logical conclusion. We reaffirm that whoever is found to have had a hand in this grievous act will not escape both the wrath of God and the due process of law.

‘Likewise, any attempt by anyone, in any form, to cover up the truth will be met with the stiffest resistance from the family and from all lovers of justice.’

The family also lauded the Nigeria Police Force for its swift response and professional handling of the investigation, urging the command to pursue the case to a logical conclusion.

‘We also acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly through the Homicide Department at Panti, Yaba, Lagos, for their commitment, physical analysis, and scientific approaches deployed so far in the investigation.

‘However, we urge that no stone should be left unturned until the real cause of OBA’s death is unravelled and justice is transparently and conclusively served.

‘As a family, we remain unwavering in our resolve to ensure that the mystery behind his sudden passing is exposed and that justice is done in honour of his memory, in the interest of the state, and for the sake of posterity

‘We once again commend and back Your Excellency for your intervention and continuous commitment to justice. May God grant you wisdom and strength as you steer Ondo State forward in fairness and truth,’ the statement added.

Until his death, Akingboye was a prominent politician in the state, businessman and philanthropist with investments in real estate, oil and gas, and agriculture.

His death has continued to attract public attention and debate as the investigation into the circumstances surrounding it continues.

Dark thighs are caused by melanin, a pigment that gives colour to the skin. It is rather called ‘hyperpigmentation.’ You may not bother to treat them because the darkness is not harmful to the thighs. However, you can still decide to clear off the dark areas or reduce it. You can reach out to a dermatologist on what to do. He or she would diagnose you and advise you on what to do.

Below are the causes of dark thighs and treatments:

1. Constant friction

Constant friction of your thigh can make it go dark. That is, your inner thighs rubbing on each other can lead to inflammation, causing skin pigmentation.

2. Genetics

This is actually the main reason inner thighs appear dark. It is because the skin cells produce more melanin. If you have a dark skin tone, you’re more likely to develop darker areas in your thighs, even on your knees and elbows.

3. Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance (which is too much or too little of certain hormones) during puberty can cause your thighs to discolour, including pregnancy, lactation, and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

4. Skin disorders

Various skin disorders often come with hyperpigmentation. Acanthosis nigricans is one of such conditions that causes skin discolouration, which also affects the neck and armpits. A fungal infection around the groin area can cause darker thighs.

5. Contraceptive pills

Contraceptive pills and other hormonal medications can change the complexion of your inner thighs or make it darker.

Treatments

There are various ways you can eliminate discolouration of your inner thighs. You can opt for home remedies, medications, or creams.

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera can help you reduce dark areas on the skin. All you need to do is rub it directly, but you don’t necessarily rinse off after application.

2. Retinoids

You can use retinoid-based products to suppress your hyperpigmentation. The result might not be quick; it could take several months before any difference.

3. OTC products

Over-the-counter products in rubs, ointments, and creams can help reduce the appearance of dark inner thighs. You can look out for moisturizers that contain vitamin B-3, ellagic acid, and any natural substance ingredients.