The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Tears, tributes at Anthony Joshua’s friends’ funeral prayer in London

    Tears, tributes at Anthony Joshua’s friends’ funeral prayer in London

    It was a sad gathering in London on Sunday, January 4, 2026 as family and friends assembled for the Janaza (funeral) prayer service for Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele, close friends of boxing star Anthony Joshua.

    The service began at 10am at the London Central Mosque, 146 Park Road, London NW8 7RG.

    A wake for the pair was also held at Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London. Then a funeral for Ghami took place at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium.

    The bodies of Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom following the fatal crash in Nigeria.

    Ghami and Ayodele tragically died in a road crash in Nigeria late last year, on Monday December 29, 2025, where Joshua was also involved but escaped with minor injuries.

    The accident occurred on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in the Makun area of Ogun State, when the Lexus SUV carrying Anthony Joshua collided with a stationary truck, killing his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, at the scene.

    READ ALSO; Police arrest two over killing of three women in Adamawa

    The funeral in London allowed family, friends, and the boxing community to pay their final respects.

    On Sunday, Joshua shared his first public message since the tragedy across his social media platforms.

    Posting poignant images of himself standing alongside the grieving families of Sina and Latz, Joshua captioned the photo: “My Brother’s Keeper”.

    The driver of the car involved in the crash, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was charged by the Ogun State Police Command with causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a licence.

    The case was adjourned until January 20 after the defendant was granted bail in the sum of ₦5 million and was remanded pending his bail conditions being met.

  • Timini Egbuson, Dakore lose father

    Timini Egbuson, Dakore lose father

    Actor and producer Timini Egbuson has announced the death of his father, sharing the news on his official Instagram page on Sunday.

    The actor, brother to actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande, expressed his grief in a post, saying, “Didn’t think I’ll start the year saying this .. Rest in peace Dad. So much left unsaid, but I’ll keep making you proud.”

    READ ALSO; Police arrest two over killing of three women in Adamawa

    The announcement has drawn widespread condolences from the entertainment industry, with notable figures including Funke Akindele, Uzee Usman, Kiekie, Gabriel Afolayan, and Mercy Aigbe offering their sympathies and prayers for the departed soul.

  • NRC records high passenger turnout as yuletide half fare ends

    NRC records high passenger turnout as yuletide half fare ends

    The Nigerian Railway Corporation recorded a surge in passenger turnout across its operational corridors as the Federal Government approved 50 percent yuletide train fare discount came to an end on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

    The discounted service, which ran throughout the festive season, attracted thousands of passengers nationwide, reinforcing rail transport as a safer and more affordable alternative during peak travel periods. Findings by The Nation showed that major stations witnessed sustained passenger flow, with several trips on key routes operating close to full capacity during the exercise.

    Checks by The Nation revealed that several departures on the Lagos Ibadan corridor operated close to full capacity during the peak festive days, particularly between December 24 and January 1. NRC officials attributed the surge to the fare reduction, improved service reliability and heightened security presence at stations.

    Along the Lagos Ibadan, Abuja Kaduna and Warri Itakpe standard gauge corridors, as well as the narrow gauge Mass Transit Train services, passenger movement remained steady, with orderly boarding processes and largely punctual departures recorded throughout the period.

    Officials of the Corporation said the turnout reflected growing public confidence in rail transportation, particularly amid rising road travel costs and security concerns during the festive season. Many passengers described the fare reduction as timely relief that eased the financial burden associated with yuletide travel while offering comfort and predictability.

    READ ALSO; Police arrest two over killing of three women in Adamawa

    Operational performance during the exercise was largely hitch free, with most services running according to schedule and passenger demand adequately managed. Ticketing, both online and at stations, was effectively coordinated, while customer service officers were deployed to assist commuters, especially first time rail users.

    Security agencies were also on ground at stations and onboard trains to ensure safety, contributing to the smooth conduct of operations nationwide.

    Management of the Corporation commended the professionalism and commitment of NRC staff, noting that the success of the exercise reflected the capacity of the rail system to support large scale passenger movement when properly incentivised.

  • Oyo police arrest three over alleged cement diversion in Ibadan

    Oyo police arrest three over alleged cement diversion in Ibadan

    The Oyo State Police Command has apprehended three individuals suspected of diverting a consignment of cement in Soka, Ibadan.

    Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed in a statement that the cement, concealed in a Dangote truck, was allegedly stolen and redirected from its intended delivery point.

    He added that preliminary investigations revealed the goods had already been sold, but were subsequently recovered.

    Olayinka said, “On 31st December 2025, intelligence received at Sanyo Division through the robust intelligence-led policing efforts in place indicated that nine hundred (900) bags of cement, concealed in a Dangote truck, had allegedly been stolen and diverted from their original delivery location.

    “Investigation revealed that the goods had been sold to Durodola Ifeoluwa (male), aged 29, and Nafisat Moruf (female), aged 31, both residents of Ibadan, Oyo State. 

    READ ALSO; Police arrest two over killing of three women in Adamawa

    “The consignment was originally intended for Adewole Area, Ilorin, Kwara State.

    “A team of operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer promptly moved to the scene, where the truck driver, Usman Jubril (male), aged 26, along with the two alleged receivers, were arrested. 

    “The truck and the 900 bags of cement, valued at approximately N18 million, were recovered and secured at the police station.:

    He added, “Following thorough intelligence-gathering and investigation, it was confirmed that the consignment had been diverted from the intended receiver. 

    “The suspects have confessed to their involvement in the crime and are currently in police custody, cooperating with investigators. 

    “They will be charged to court upon the completion of the investigation.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Femi Haruna, commended the timely intelligence and swift response of the operatives and expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for his leadership in strengthening intelligence-led policing across the country. 

    “CP Haruna reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting property, ensuring accountability, and bringing offenders to justice.

    “Investigation is ongoing, and the Oyo State Police Command urges members of the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station, while assuring them that all efforts will be made to safeguard lives and property.”

  • 2027: Rivers APC in Ahoada West pledges loyalty to Wike

    2027: Rivers APC in Ahoada West pledges loyalty to Wike

    …minister visits Ahoada LGA

    Following ongoing political developments in Rivers State, the All Progressives Congress in Ahoada West Local Government Area has pledged to take directives only from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, regarding the 2027 elections.

    The pledge came on Sunday during Wike’s ongoing “thank-you visit” to local government areas across the state. APC Chairman in Ahoada West, Rejoice Otobo, said the minister has shown deep commitment to the people of Rivers State, and the party would follow his guidance in all political matters.

    Otobo described the state’s political situation as unfortunate, noting that Rivers State needs leaders who listen to their people. He added that influential stakeholders in the LGA stand firmly with Wike.

    He stated, “We await instructions from you on the 2027 elections concerning Rivers State. Wherever you ask us to go, there we shall go; whatever you ask us to do is what we will do. All the good and the bad people of the LGA have decided that where you want us to go is where we will go.”

    Similarly, Peoples Democratic Party leaders in the area, including Ikechukwu Obuzor, expressed loyalty to Wike. “We are standing firm with you. Wherever you go, we will go. Be assured, come 2027, Ahoada West will deliver the needed results for you,” he said.

    Earlier, Ahoada Local Government Council Chairman, Chita Eugene, described Wike as “the political field marshal of the South-South” and praised his record in attracting unprecedented development to Rivers State. House of Representatives member for Ahoada West/Ogba-Egbema/Ndoni Federal Constituency, Victor Obuzor, also reaffirmed support, citing Wike’s transformative impact on the LGA and the state during his tenure as governor.

    The Seyi Tinubu Support Group, led by Chidi Amadi, further pledged backing for Wike and the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    Addressing the gathering, Wike insisted that Rivers State Governor Similalayi Fubara should be voted out in 2027, arguing that he lacks the capacity to lead. He thanked the people for their support in the 2023 elections and stressed the need to restore Rivers State’s prominence in Nigeria’s political landscape.

    The minister said, “Already, Rivers State is being respected because of what we are doing in FCT. We need a leader we can trust to drive our dear state to glory and progress,” the minister said.

    Wike said, “This is the only state that we have mobilized other political parties. Here, we are not talking about parties; we are talking about one family, the people.

    “What we have here is a broad-based, inclusive tradition, a kind of political rainbow. Very few states can achieve that level of unity. My hope is that one day, we will collectively make a decision and focus our strength on one political platform ahead of 2027.

    “As for those on the other side, we are not interested in conflict. Leadership requires that all of us go back, coordinate, and ensure everyone works together. I have no complaints about that.

    “I can clearly see organic unity. Let me be honest with you: we have made mistakes in the past during political negotiations. I will not lie to you about that. But we will not repeat those mistakes again.

    “We had a first agreement, and someone emerged. We had a second agreement, and again someone emerged. Look at the challenges that followed. We will not make that mistake again. That is my personal position. Please, do not quote me out of context.

    “When I was Governor, I made it clear: we cannot go backwards. We cannot retreat. Politics requires firmness and clarity.

    The competition has collapsed because the people have spoken.

    “Despite attempts to undermine us, we remain standing. No one has been cheated. No one has been sidelined. Rivers State has been shown love, and that love is being reciprocated.

    “Who would have believed that a peaceful Rivers man would become Minister of the Federal Capital Territory? Yet, by the grace of God, we are delivering results. What you see today in the FCT reflects the contribution and character of Rivers people.

    “Anywhere you go in Nigeria, when people talk about our work, they ask questions. Your response should be simple: support what is working. Where governance is effective, encourage it.

    “This is the time to act. This is the time for everyone to come together and do what is right. No one should assume automatic entitlement. Leadership must be earned through trust and unity.”

  • New Year: Amagbein lauds FG, Nigerians, calls for more commitment to peace, security

    New Year: Amagbein lauds FG, Nigerians, calls for more commitment to peace, security

    Niger Delta ex-agitator, the self-styled General Endurance Amagbein, has wished the government and the good people of Nigeria a fruitful year 2026, urging them to keep their hopes alive and expect nothing but the best.

    He said there is no limit to what they can achieved if they believe it can be done.

    In a New Year message issued to newsmen in Abuja, Amagbein sent special greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the members and leadership of the National Assembly for their wisdom in keeping the country together despite the daunting challenges facing the nation.

    He said the New Year is another opportunity for the citizens and the leadership of the country to support one another and commit themselves to things that promote peace and unity.

    He also congratulated the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retired), DSS Director-General, Adeola Ajayi, and all the service chiefs for their selfless services and dedication to defending the sovereignty of Nigeria and for keeping the nation safe and peaceful.

    He prayed God Almighty to strengthen them to do more this year.

    Amagbein, fondly called Adaka Boro the second, extended his warm wishes to the Commanding Officers of 5 Battalion Elele, Port Harcourt, and 16 Brigade, Yenagoa, and the Director of DSS in Bayelsa, including the Central Naval Command Headquarters, Yenagoa, and the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Delta Safe for keeping peace and securing lives and property.

    He also sent his wishes to the Government and good people of Bayelsa State led by Governor Douye Diri, saying that his prayers are that the New Year will be favourable to everyone.

    He used the opportunity to advice Nigerians to desist from everything which doesn’t promote peace and unity.

    He said 2026 is a year for people to make conscious efforts towards making life easier, better and more meaningful to people.

    He also urged citizens to be security conscious and support the armed forces to fight insecurity in their areas.

    Amagbein also stressed the need for citizens to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to enable him deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

    He also pledged his support to the Tinubu-led federal government and prayed God to protect the lives of military men and women who are out there to serve their fatherland.

    END 

  • Olorunda council area proposes N9.8b 2026 budget

    Olorunda council area proposes N9.8b 2026 budget

    The chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, Ajose Peter Kumayon, has presented a N9.8 billion 2026 budget proposal to the 6th legislative arm of the council.

    Ajose, while presenting the budget, tagged: “Budget of Development”, said the proposal represented a 44 per cent increase over the 2025 approved appropriation.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu for allowing the council to plan and prepare for effective execution, adding that much could be achieved with the available allocation.

    READ ALSO; Why I walked away as Finance Minister – Kemi Adeosun

    He said that within his first 100 days in office, significant changes had been recorded at the council area, stressing that with the support of staff, residents would continue to feel the impact of his administration.

    According to him, the administration is guided by placing priorities on  Security, Education, Enhanced healthcare and Development, aimed at boosting economic and infrastructural growth in the area.

  • Osun 2026: Akande, Oyetola will lead APC to victory – Owoeye

    Osun 2026: Akande, Oyetola will lead APC to victory – Owoeye

    A former speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Timothy Owoeye, has assured residents of the state that the pioneer National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adeboyega Oyetola and other party chieftains will lead the party to guber victory on August 8th 2026.

    Owoeye, in his New Year message, congratulated the people of the state, urging them to wait patiently for the emergence of APC candidate, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) as the governor of the state.

    He noted that Oyebamiji’s victory at the primary election, which earned him the APC gubernatorial ticket, is the best thing that happened in 2025. He lauded the leadership of the party in Osun for the choice of his candidacy.

    Owoeye noted that AMBO is the best to secure victory for the party next year, saying: “I want to salute the leadership of the party under the Chief Bisi Akande and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola. I am very confident that Mr Oyetola and the other party leaders would lead the APC to victory in the 2026 and 2027 elections.”

    READ ALSO; Why I walked away as Finance Minister – Kemi Adeosun

    He charged members of the APC to remain steadfast and committed to the party’s ideals.

    Also, a chieftain of the party, Ademola Adedapo, tasked residents of Osun to be steadfast and united, noting that the economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu are poised to bring prosperity and a brighter future.

    The APC chieftain also called for support for the candidate of the party in the August 08 2026, election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, adding that he is the best person to deliver true governance for the Osun people.

    “I know year 2025 was challenging due to some reforms initiated by our President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. However, I want us to know that it was for the good of the country. Let us continue to support the federal government as these reforms are poised to bring prosperity and a brighter future to our great nation,” Adedapo noted.

  • New Year: Babayemi tasks govt on grassroots development

    New Year: Babayemi tasks govt on grassroots development

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Dotun Babayemi, has called on government at all levels in the country to place a premium on grassroots development in the new year.

    Babayemi, who expressed concern, said that the call had become imperative in view of the neglect and degradation being suffered by the people at the grassroots.

    In his New Year message released by his media office, the leader of the Ireti Osun Movement said President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Ward Development Program (RHWDP) could be used as launchpad to achieve this.

    READ ALSO; Guru Maharaj Ji predicts Tinubu, APC’s victory in 2027

    “At the risk of sounding immodest, I can talk about my state, which has 332 wards. Out of these, I visited 299 wards with 33 remaining. I can safely say that the experience was far from being palatable as it shows people going through excruciating pains and completely cut off from modernity,” he decried.

    He lamented that the absence of basic social amenities such as good roads, potable water, electricity, schools and hospitals, among others, was the hallmark of the rural areas.

  • Yayi’s town hall meeting to hold in Ogun East February

    Yayi’s town hall meeting to hold in Ogun East February

    Following a successful town hall meeting in Ogun West, which drew over 1,500 participants and guests, Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi’s town hall meeting series is set to proceed to Ogun East, with the second edition scheduled for February 12, 2026.

    According to the organisers, the Ogun Visionaries, the meeting is expected to draw the ‘who’s who’ in the Ogun East political circle to interact and engage with the electorate.

    A statement issued by the Director General of the Ogun Visionaries, Hon. Odunleye Odunjo, said the theme of the meeting is: Yayi’s Candidacy: For Equality and Innovation.

    READ ALSO; Why I walked away as Finance Minister – Kemi Adeosun

    The statement read in part: ”Feedback from November’s town hall meeting in Ogun West shows that the people of Ogun state are ready for a new leadership led by Sen. Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi in 2027. From the turnout to the buzz on social media, it is important to continue with meetings from zone to zone, constituency to constituency, LGA to LGA, and finally ward to ward.

    ”As usual, discussants will be invited to discuss issues affecting critical sectors, and participants registered from the nooks and crannies of Ogun state. In an event envisaged to be the biggest political event in the first quarter of 2026, it is expected to put a colourful carpet of social acceptance for Sen. Solomon Olamilekan Adeola in the Ogun East Senatorial zone of Ogun state.”    

    ”These discussions and engagements are the first in a series of activities preceding the official declaration of Sen. Solomon Olamilekan Adeola for the number one seat of Ogun state in 2027,” Odunjo.