The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • 13 NNPP Reps deny defection rumours, reaffirm loyalty to party leadership

    13 NNPP Reps deny defection rumours, reaffirm loyalty to party leadership

    Thirteen members of the House of Representatives elected on the platform of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) have denied reports suggesting their planned defection to other political parties.

    Their clarification came just hours after two NNPP lawmakers in the House announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    In a joint statement signed by the 13 members, the lawmakers reaffirmed their total loyalty to the NNPP and its leadership, stressing that their interactions with members of other parties should not be misconstrued as plans to defect.

    The statement read: “We, the Members of the House of Representatives who proudly identify with the Kwankwasiya Movement and belong to the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), wish to reaffirm our total and unwavering loyalty to our great party and its visionary leadership.”

    Those who signed the statement include Ghali Mustapha Tijjani, Barr. Rabi’u Yusuf, Abdulhakeem Kamilu Ado, Hassan Muhammad Danjuma, Barr. Muhammad Bello Shehu, Datti Yusuf, Sani Wakil, DanKawu Idris, Garba Diso, Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe, Hassan Hussain, Mukhtar Umar Yarima, and Muhammed Garba Chiroma.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    “Our attention has been drawn to false and malicious reports circulating across various social media platforms and other channels, alleging that we, the Kwankwasiya lawmakers in the Green Chamber, are planning to defect to other political parties. 

    “We wish to categorically debunk these unfounded rumors and urge the general public, our supporters, and well-meaning Nigerians to disregard such misleading claims. 

    “These rumors are nothing but the handiwork of polincal detractors who are threatened by the growing influence, unity, and resilience of the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya family partucularly in Kano State and across Nigeria. 

    “Let it be clearly understood that as lawmakers, our constitutional responsibilities demand constructive engagement with colleagues across party lines in the interest of national development. 

    “Our interactions with members of other political parties should not be misconstrued as disloyalty or an indication of defection. Rather, it reflects our commitment to bipartisan cooperation aimed at advancing good governance, national unity, and progress for all Nigenans. 

    “We remain steadfast in our allegiance to the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya ideology, which stands for jusuce, equity, inclusiveness, and people-centered governance. No amount of misinformation or propaganda will shake our faith in the movement or in the leadership. 

    “We reaffirm our collective dedication to promoting effective governance, quality education, accessible healthcare, youth empowerment, and improved living standards for every Nigerian. 

    “We stand firm, united, and loyal to the NNPP, to the Kwankwasiya Movement, the national leader, Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and to the people we serve. 

  • Senate probes trillions in stamp duty collection

    Senate probes trillions in stamp duty collection

    …demands full disclosure from Banks, CBN, FIRS, governors

    The Senate has commenced a comprehensive investigation into stamp duty collections reportedly amounting to several trillions of naira, seeking full disclosure from commercial banks, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and state governments.

    Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee, Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja, stating that the probe was prompted by concerns over the “humongous” revenue generated from stamp duties between 2016 and 2024, much of which remains unaccounted for.

    “It is one thing to generate revenue and another to ensure it is judiciously utilized,” Wadada said. “The legislature cannot afford to look the other way when trillions are at stake.”

    According to him, the committee has written to all commercial banks requesting detailed records of stamp duty collections and remittances covering the eight-year period under review.

    The committee has also directed the CBN to provide corresponding data on the amounts remitted by the banks and what was subsequently transferred into the Treasury Single Account (TSA).

    In addition, letters have been sent to the FIRS to account for stamp duties collected on both government and private sector agreements, and to the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, chaired by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to disclose proceeds received by state governments.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    Wadada assured that the investigation would be thorough, transparent, and aimed at ensuring accountability in the management of public revenues.

    “We want to know what is where, and how effectively it has been used,” Wadada said.

    “This is about accountability and ensuring every kobo collected on behalf of Nigerians is properly tracked.”

    He added that the committee had received preliminary data from consultants but would wait to reconcile all submissions before making its findings public.

    “We have a fair idea of what’s involved,” he said. “But we’re verifying every figure. Once that’s done, we’ll not hesitate to summon anyone necessary to explain discrepancies.”

    He said that all concerned agencies have until November 25, 2025, to respond to the Senate’s requests.

    “This administration has shown commitment to transparency.

    “Our job is to make sure that the revenues it depends on are fully accounted for and effectively utilised for the benefit of Nigerians,” Wadada said.

  • Senate seeks urgent construction of Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu road to link Ondo, Edo

    Senate seeks urgent construction of Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu road to link Ondo, Edo

    …says road key to cocoa export, rural development

    The Senate on Thursday urged the federal government to prioritise the construction of the Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu road in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State to enhance connectivity between Ondo and Edo States and boost agricultural productivity in the region.

    The red chamber urged the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to include the construction of the road in the 2026 capital budget and ensure prompt commencement of the project.

    It also called on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to carry out immediate palliative works to make the road temporarily passable pending full reconstruction.

    Additionally, the Senate asked the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to collaborate with the Ministry of Works in prioritising road projects that enhance agricultural value-chain development, including the Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu corridor.

    These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Adeniyi Ayodele Adegbonmire (Ondo Central), titled: “Urgent need for the construction of the Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu Road in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State to Link Ondo State with Edo State.”

    Adegbonmire in his lead debate, said Idanre, historically one of Nigeria’s major cocoa-producing areas, has contributed immensely to the nation’s agricultural and industrial output since the colonial era.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    He lamented that despite the area’s economic importance and rich agricultural base, it continues to suffer from infrastructural neglect, particularly poor road connectivity, which has hindered the evacuation of farm produce and stifled rural development.

    The senator noted that the Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu road serves as a strategic corridor linking Ondo State with Edo State and the South-South region, facilitating the movement of cocoa, palm produce, plantain, timber, and other farm goods.

    He, however, decried the deplorable condition of the road, saying it has become almost impassable, especially during the rainy season, leaving farmers stranded and leading to post-harvest losses of thousands of tonnes of produce.

    Adegbonmire warned that the continued neglect of the road has deepened economic isolation for residents of Idanre and neighbouring communities, despite their significant contribution to Nigeria’s non-oil export sector.

    He added that the situation runs contrary to the Federal Government’s commitments under the National Development Plan (2021–2025) and the Renewed Hope Agenda, both of which emphasise rural infrastructure and agricultural expansion as catalysts for national growth.

    According to him, the construction of the Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu road would open up new economic opportunities in agro-processing, tourism, and local enterprise, while reducing travel time, transport costs, and accident risks.

    The Committee on Works was mandated to engage with the relevant ministries and agencies to ensure compliance and report back to the Senate within eight weeks for further legislative action.

  • At 70, Asagba of Asaba shines in wisdom, service — Oborevwori

    At 70, Asagba of Asaba shines in wisdom, service — Oborevwori

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, on his 70th birth anniversary, describing his reign as one of peace and humility.

    Governor Oborevwori spoke on Thursday at the Thanksgiving Mass held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, to mark the royal father’s platinum jubilee.

    He stated that Asagba’s life is a shining testament to wisdom, integrity, and purpose.

    The governor said it was good for the Asagba to return thanks to God for His grace and faithfulness, having attained the biblical age of three score and ten in strength and sound health.

    He said, “I am very happy for this celebration because it is important that when God takes you to a particular level in life, you come back to appreciate Him. This thanksgiving is special because it is not just another birthday, it is an offering of gratitude for seventy years of divine mercy, strength, and grace.”

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    The Governor extolled the life and leadership of the monarch, noting that his reign had been marked by peace, humility, and understanding.

    “Your Majesty, your life is a living testimony of wisdom,” he said. “From the classroom to the throne, you have demonstrated excellence, honesty, and service. As a lawyer and teacher, you helped shape minds and institutions across Nigeria and beyond. As a royal father, you have guided your people with grace, fostering unity and progress in Asaba and Delta State,” he said.

    Oborevwori praised the Asagba’s consistent support for the state government and his remarkable devotion to duty.

    “There is no invitation too small for His Majesty to honour. He attends every event, even at short notice, that humility and commitment inspire us all. I am proud to celebrate you not only as a traditional ruler but as a symbol of what it means to combine talent, purpose, and service for the good of society,” he added.

    Quoting Proverbs 16:31, the Governor described the monarch’s gray hair as “a crown of glory gained through a righteous life,” and prayed that God would continue to grant him strength, wisdom, and long life.

    He also commended Her Majesty, the Asagba’s wife, for her steadfast support, saying, “your wife has stood by you faithfully. I have known her for many years, and I must thank her for being a pillar of support in your journey of service to God and humanity.”

    Governor Oborevwori further thanked the people of Asaba Kingdom for their loyalty to their monarch, saying their love and unity had made his reign peaceful and successful.

    “To the good people of Asaba Kingdom, I say thank you for your support and for standing firmly with your monarch. Your Majesty, happy 70th birthday. May these years bring you more joy, peace, and fulfillment”, he concluded.

    Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, described the occasion as a moment of thanksgiving and reflection on a life devoted to God and humanity.

    Drawing his message from Psalm 90, the Cardinal said, “The Bible reminds us that seventy is the sum of our years. It is a time to look back with gratitude and look forward with faith.”

    He lauded the Asagba for his steadfast faith, wisdom, and compassion, calling him “a true monarch who has served God and humanity with love, integrity, and commitment.”

  • Ebonny Musik drops unstoppable EP, fuses Afrobeat with UK urban vibes

    Ebonny Musik drops unstoppable EP, fuses Afrobeat with UK urban vibes

    Nigerian-born and UK-based singer, Ebenezer Olaolu Mabinuori, popularly known as Ebonny Musik, has released a new body of work titled:  Unstoppable.

    It is a five-track Extended Play (EP) that showcases his evolution as an Afro-urban artist blending African rhythm with British sonic influences.

    The project, which features producers Christian Jude, D’tunes, Slash Beatz, and Grammy-nominated Bolaji Williams (Phazehop), is being hailed as Ebonny’s most cohesive and intentional effort yet. It delivers a seamless mix of Afrobeat energy and UK-style polish without losing its Nigerian groove.

    From start to finish, Unstoppable captures Ebonny’s confidence as an artist finding his voice. The EP opens with Feelings, a smooth, mid-tempo collaboration with D’tunes that sets a relaxed mood and highlights the singer’s emotive delivery.

    The tempo picks up on Whine 4 Me, a club-ready track built on heavy drums and catchy basslines, while the lyrics retain a playful Afrobeat charm.

    The emotional highlight of the project, however, comes with Good Days Bad Days, a soulful reflection on resilience and life’s ups and downs. The song, supported by soft percussion and acoustic guitar, has resonated strongly with fans and dominated airwaves across the country.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    It has received massive rotation on top Nigerian radio stations including Vybes FM, Star FM, Wazobia FM, Lagos Traffic Radio, Cool FM, Hot FM, Fresh FM, Rockcity FM, Faaji FM, Raypower, and Smash FM, while also airing on MTV Base Naija, Trace Naija, TVC, Soundcity, ONTV, and NTA Ilorin.

    Collaborating with London-based producer Christian Jude, Ebonny experiments with smoother, R&B-infused Afrobeat on Sweetest, while One Life, the closing track, brings a celebratory tone with its uplifting message about seizing opportunities.

    The EP’s diverse production lineup adds depth without losing consistency. Jude’s sleek touch contrasts D’tunes’ warmth, while Slash Beatz adds rhythmic edge and Phazehop provides rich sonic layering. The result is a clean, balanced sound that avoids the clutter common in Afro-urban projects.

    Lyrically, Unstoppable explores familiar but heartfelt themes of love, ambition, and perseverance. The simple, relatable songwriting, particularly in Good Days Bad Days, is part of what has endeared the project to listeners.

    The EP’s structure follows a deliberate flow: opening with introspection, building toward danceable rhythms, slowing for reflection, and closing on an optimistic note. This sequencing makes the project feel complete and well-curated.

    Ebonny’s Unstoppable arrives at a time when Nigerian and diaspora artists are shaping the global Afrobeat soundscape. His UK influence is evident, yet his Nigerian roots remain firm, especially in the rhythmic and lyrical textures.

    While the EP may not radically redefine the Afro-urban genre, it delivers consistency, thoughtful production, and emotional depth. Its standout track, Good Days Bad Days, positions Ebonny as one of the emerging voices to watch.

    With Unstoppable, Ebonny Musik has made a strong statement, polished, passionate, and true to his name. The project signals an artist on the rise, one determined to grow and, as the title suggests, remain unstoppable.

  • Okpebholo sacks two traditional rulers

    Okpebholo sacks two traditional rulers

     Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has sacked traditional rulers of Ososo and Ikpeshii/Egbegere Clans, Akoko-Edo local government area.

    The traditional rulers sacked are Bamidele Obaitan of Ososo Kingdom and Zaiki Luckman Odamah III of Ikpeshi/Egbegere clan.

    Their sacking was contained in a statement by Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhlor.

    The statement said Governor Okpebholo revoked appointments of both Monarchs in the interest of peace, stability, and due process after reviewing circumstances surrounding ongoing disputes relating to the traditional leadership of both communities.

    It said Governor approved appointment of Mr. Nicholas Odamah as the Regent of the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan while elders of the four quarters (Unukhus), the Council of Chiefs, and the Elders of Ososo were directed to meet, consult widely, and submit a consensus candidate for appointment to the vacant stool of the Ososo Kingdom.

    According to the statement, “Odamah shall oversee the affairs of the clan in a custodial capacity and ensure full cooperation with government directives.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    “Submission of a consensus candidate shall be made through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs within a timeframe to be communicated formally by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. This process must reflect the customs, rotation principles, and collective will of the Ososo people.

    “Both Mr. Bamidele Obaitan and Mr. Luckman Odamah are directed to immediately hand over all Government properties, instruments of office, and materials in their possession to the Chairman, Akoko-Edo Local Government Council without delay.”

    Odamah III had earlier protested the appointment of Prof. Roland Otaru as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

  • APC moves to strengthen digital transformation with nationwide membership e-registration drive

    APC moves to strengthen digital transformation with nationwide membership e-registration drive

    In a renewed effort to reposition the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a modern, digitally driven, and people-centred political party, its National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to actualizing its membership e-registration exercise launched last year.

    Yilwatda made this known on Thursday in Abuja while declaring open a one-day membership e-registration training workshop for the 36 state chairmen of the party.

    Represented by the National Vice Chairman (North Central), Hon. Muazu Bawa Rijau, the APC chairman described the workshop as a major step in strengthening the party’s internal structures and promoting innovation in political organization.

    He said the National Working Committee (NWC), under his leadership, attaches great importance to the digital registration initiative, adding that the APC must embrace technology as a vital tool for its future growth and sustainability.

    “We believe that for the APC to remain a truly progressive and people-oriented party, it must embrace digital transformation, not as a choice, but as a necessity for growth, credibility, and sustainability,” Yilwatda stated.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    Also speaking at the event, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Muhammad Sulaiman Arugungu, said the goal of the exercise is to develop an efficient, transparent, and inclusive membership system that accurately reflects the APC’s strength and spread across the country.

    He added that the initiative follows a series of zonal workshops earlier held across the six geopolitical zones, which brought together State Organising Secretaries and three representatives from each senatorial district to build capacity and ensure a smooth nationwide rollout of the e-registration process.

     “Those sessions focused on the operational aspects of the e-registration system as well as top-down training.

    “Today’s programme, however, is meant to ensure that our state chairmen, the custodians of party structures at the state level, fully understand both the technical framework and strategic importance of this initiative.

    “Through this initiative, we will build a credible and verifiable digital database of APC members nationwide; Improve transparency and accountability in party management; Enhance communication and coordination between the National Secretariat and the grassroots; provide a reliable tool for congresses, primaries, and election planning; and strengthen our mobilization base ahead of the 2027 general elections”.

    According to him, the reforms reflect the collective commitment to modernization, inclusivity, and organizational excellence, being emphasized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and the NWC

    Charging the State Chairmen, Arugungu said. “As leaders of the party in your respective states, your role in the success of this programme is pivotal. You are expected to provide leadership and supervision throughout the e-registration process.

    “Ensure that others are properly trained and supported; Mobilize existing and prospective members to register digitally; Guarantee fairness, inclusivity, and transparency during implementation; and maintain open communication with the National Secretariat for updates, feedback, and coordination”.

    Assuring the party leadership, the Chairman of the Forum of State Chairmen and Lagos State Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, said that leaders at the sub-national levels are ready to ensure the success of the project.

  • Customs flags off one-stop-shop initiative to reduce cargo dwell time to 48 hours

    Customs flags off one-stop-shop initiative to reduce cargo dwell time to 48 hours

    As part of its efforts to enhance seamless operations and ease trade facilitation for traders and other stakeholders in the maritime industry, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has formally introduced its One-Stop-Shop Initiative at Zone ‘A’, Lagos, to reduce cargo dwell time at port to 48 hours.

    The One-Stop-Shop initiative, the service said, “is expected to reduce cargo dwell time to an average of 48 hours per shipment, cut demurrage costs for importers, and foster accountability in port operations.”

    Speaking at the highly attended event, which was held at Apapa Area Command of the Service yesterday, the Zonal Coordinator of Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General Mohammed Babandede, described the platform as a smarter, technology-driven approach to cargo clearance that will enhance efficiency, transparency, and inter-agency collaboration.

    The One-Stop-Shop initiative, the Service said, is a central platform for intelligence gathering and coordination, and also houses all documents within the NCS, ensuring a more efficient and coordinated approach to Customs operations.

    Babandede explained that the platform brings all relevant Customs Units under one operational roof, allowing joint review, examination, and decision-making at a single point of contact.

    The initiative, he said, “is backed by the B’Odogwu digital platform, the system enables real-time data sharing, centralised documentation, analytical reporting, and seamless trader engagement through the Customs portal.

    Read Also: COWA vows to empower families along Nigeria’s borders

    “The OSS would eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks that often delay cargo release, ensuring that every flagged declaration is handled transparently and collaboratively,” he stated.

    He also commended the Customs ICT team for their role in developing the platform, describing it as a milestone in the Service’s modernisation drive.

    He, however, pointed out that the success of the new initiative would rely solely on the integrity of the implementation.

    Babandede, therefore, directed Customs officers and urged the trading community to efficiently utilise the process through the Customs portal.

    The event brought together the Zonal Coordinator of Zone ‘A’, Babandede; Comptroller Frank Onyeka, Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Port; Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Apapa Customs Area Command; Comptroller Peter Ntadi, Area Controller, Western Marine Command. And representatives of other stakeholders, like freight-forwarder associations, terminal operators, and licensed Customs agents, lauded the initiative as a welcome innovation for the trading public.

  • UNICEF, FG urge media to champion fight against neglected tropical diseases

    UNICEF, FG urge media to champion fight against neglected tropical diseases

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on journalists and media organisations across Nigeria to take the lead in promoting behavioural change towards the elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) nationwide.

    The UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Bauchi, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, made the call during a Media Dialogue on Neglected Tropical Disease Elimination held on Thursday in Bauchi State.

    Rafique identified poverty, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water as major factors driving the spread of NTDs.

     She stressed the need for communities to embrace cleaner and healthier lifestyles to break the cycle of disease and poverty.

    “Poverty is a vicious cycle of ill health and deprivation. When people live in unclean environments, they are more likely to fall sick. Illness limits productivity and deepens poverty,” she said.

    She noted that these diseases have far-reaching effects on children’s growth, development, and productivity, adding that improved hygiene and sanitation are essential to breaking transmission.

    Rafique urged the government and communities to invest in safe water systems, proper waste management, and household cleanliness.

    “We need to strengthen our health system and prioritise WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) interventions. The media serves as the eyes, ears, and voice of society — you can raise awareness, shape behaviour, and change lives. Behavioural change is not easy, but the media plays a powerful role in achieving it,” she stated.

    She further warned against open defecation and the consumption of unsafe water, noting that polluted rivers expose residents to diseases like River Blindness and other vector-borne infections.

    “When we control flies and mosquitoes, we prevent illnesses such as malaria and dengue. Clean water, proper sanitation, and timely health-seeking practices are crucial in preventing these diseases,” she added.

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    Also speaking, the North-East Zonal Coordinator of the NTD Control Programme under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Hauwa Abubakar, described NTDs as “diseases of poverty” that continue to pose major public health challenges, especially in rural areas.

    “NTDs are preventable and curable diseases that mostly affect the poor and rural dwellers. They cause disability, deformity, and even death when untreated,” she explained.

    She appealed to the media to amplify public awareness campaigns with accurate information on the prevention and control of NTDs, noting that sensitisation remains one of the most effective ways to reduce their burden in Nigeria.

    Nation reports that the media dialogue brought together health experts, communication specialists, and journalists to strengthen collaboration toward eliminating NTDs and improving community health outcomes in Bauchi State and beyond.

  • Things to know as Nigeria take on Gabon in 2026 World Cup Playoff

    Things to know as Nigeria take on Gabon in 2026 World Cup Playoff

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set for a crucial showdown against Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff, as both sides battle for a place in the final qualifying round.

    With pressure mounting and expectations high, Nigeria will be eager to impose their superiority and avoid costly mistakes that could derail their World Cup hopes. The victor from this encounter will advance to face either Congo or Cameroon in the next stage of the playoff series.

    Buoyed by an impressive run of form, the Super Eagles enter this fixture with renewed belief following their emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in the final group game — a result that sealed their playoff qualification. Before that, the 2024 AFCON finalists had struggled for consistency, winning just three matches throughout the qualifiers. South Africa, despite having three points deducted, finished top of the group to book their direct ticket.

    Gabon, meanwhile, were solid and competitive throughout their group campaign but narrowly missed out on qualification to the Ivory Coast by a single point. The Panthers are now determined to make amends, though they must first overcome Nigeria — and potentially one of Congo or Cameroon — to keep their World Cup dream alive.

    For the Super Eagles, dominance in midfield, quick transitions down the flanks, and defensive discipline will be key. Their ability to convert chances efficiently could prove decisive. On the other hand, Nigeria’s backline must stay alert to the attacking duo of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Bouanga, who will undoubtedly pose a constant threat to the defense.

    However, the firepower in Nigeria’s attack could tilt the balance. With Victor Osimhen in blistering form, alongside Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and other top European-based stars, the Super Eagles have enough quality to trouble the Gabonese defense.

    All players are available for selection except Semi Ajayi, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. The Hull City defender will, however, be eligible should Nigeria progress to face Congo or Cameroon.

    Read Also: Play-Offs:  NFF tips Super Eagles to subdue Panthers  after pay dispute

    History also favors the Super Eagles, who have won five of their nine previous meetings with Gabon, drawing three and losing only once. Their most notable encounter came in 2005, when Nigeria triumphed 2–0.

    This time, though, there will be no home advantage for either side, as both the semifinal and final playoff matches are scheduled to take place in Morocco — setting the stage for a tense, neutral-ground battle.

    Nigeria World Cup Qualifying – Africa form:

    W D W D W W

    Nigeria form (all competitions):

    W D W D W W

    Gabon World Cup Qualifying – Africa form:

    W W W D W W

    Gabon form (all competitions):

    L W W D W W

    Nigeria’s possible starting lineup:

    Nwabali; Frederick, Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Chukwueze, Ndidi, Iwobi, Simon; Osimhen, Lookman

    Gabon’s possible starting lineup:

    Mbaba; Onfia, M’bemba, Manga; Lemina, Kanga, Ndong, Averlant; Obiang, Bouanga, Aubameyang

    Fixture: Nigeria vs Gabon

    Competition: 2025 FIFA World Cup Playoffs

    Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025

    Time: 5:00 p.m. (Nigerian time)

    Venue: Moulay El Hassan Stadium

    Where to Watch: CAF TV, DSTV, Sporty TV

    Prediction

    Nigeria 2-0 Gabon

    Nigeria 3-1 Gabon

    Both teams to score