The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Foundation spreads Christmas cheer to girls at Lagos juvenile home

    Foundation spreads Christmas cheer to girls at Lagos juvenile home

    The Tabitha-Abimbola Foundation (TAF) on Saturday brought Christmas cheer to girls at a juvenile correctional facility in Idi-Araba, Lagos, as part of its annual outreach programme.

    The outreach, tagged “Christmas with Less Privileged Children 3.0,” marked the Foundation’s 2025 Christmas celebration and extended its impact to a new beneficiary group.

    The Founder of the Lagos-based non-profit organisation, Mrs Abimbola Agbebiyi, said the initiative was aimed at restoring hope, dignity and self-worth in young girls facing difficult life circumstances.

    “Christmas is a time for joy, reflection and giving. Our annual celebrations are not just about gifts, but about creating moments of hope and connection.

    “This year, bringing our Christmas celebration to these young girls is our way of reminding them that they are seen, valued and capable of rising above their circumstances,” Agbebiyi said.

    According to her, since its establishment in 2023, the Foundation has reached more than 200 less-privileged children, providing clothing and essential food items to both the children and their mothers.

    She recalled that in 2024, the foundation hosted over 100 children with special needs drawn from various orphanages, offering mobility aids, assistive learning devices, mattresses and festive gifts.

    “For our 2025 outreach, we intentionally chose to celebrate Christmas with girls in a juvenile correctional facility, to let them experience joy, care and encouragement during the season,” Agbebiyi said.

    It was reported that the Christmas event featured dance and drama presentations, prayers, words of affirmation and reflective sessions aimed at helping the girls reconnect with their dreams and aspirations.

    The celebration also included a visit by Santa Claus, a Christmas meal and the distribution of personalised gift packs, Bibles, journals, hygiene items and motivational storybooks.

    In addition, the Foundation presented raw food items to members of staff at the facility, in appreciation of their commitment to caring for the girls.

    TAF partnered with the Prisons Ministry of Global Harvest Church, Maryland, Ikeja, which provided spiritual support and prayers during the outreach.

    Agbebiyi described the collaboration as impactful, noting that it reinforced the Foundation’s commitment to holistic support.

    “Our work goes beyond material support. We believe in nurturing the mind, spirit and confidence of every child we reach,” she said.

    In his response, Mrs Ojukotola Sumbo, the Head, Special Correctional Centre for Girls, expressed gratitude to the foundation for the gifts.

    Sumbo said that the impact of the gifts and the dance drama on the theme Your future is bright”, would go a long way to transform the girls in the home.

    The Tabitha-Abimbola Foundation is a Lagos-based non-profit organisation focused on improving the lives of vulnerable women, children and communities through initiatives in education, health, empowerment and social inclusion.

  • Firstbank-sponsored ‘Obey the Musical’ stage play thrills audience in Lagos

    Firstbank-sponsored ‘Obey the Musical’ stage play thrills audience in Lagos

    First Bank of Nigeria Limited has sponsored the stage play Obey The Musical, a biographical production celebrating the life and legacy of juju music icon, Evangelist Professor Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi.

    The two-day performance, held on December 25 and 26 at the Agip Hall, Muson Centre, Lagos Island, attracted large audiences who gathered as part of the Yuletide festivities. The play was hosted by Joseph Edgar of The Duke of Somolu Foundation and written by Emmanuel Adejumo, son of the late veteran comedian, Baba Sala.

    Obey The Musical tells the true-life story of Chief Ebenezer Obey, widely regarded as one of the pioneers who took juju music from the streets to mainstream popularity in Nigeria. Through a blend of live music, traditional dance, drama and storytelling, the production traced Obey’s journey from his early years in school to his rise as a household name in the Nigerian music industry.

    Before the intermission, Edgar paid tribute to the late Segun Awolowo Jr., a strong supporter of the foundation’s productions. A minute of silence was observed in his honour, led by veteran actor and talk show host, Yemi Sodimu. 

    Also speaking, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Managing Director of Oodu’a Investment Company Limited, described Awolowo Jr. as a committed patron of the arts and commended the production team and sponsors for sustaining his passion for theatre.

    The play highlighted Obey’s formative years, his academic excellence, and his unwavering determination to succeed in music. It also explored defining moments in his career, including his breakthrough at Deca Records, where his preparation and talent earned him an immediate recording deal.

    A major emotional point in the production was the portrayal of the tragic loss of Obey’s wife, a moment that deeply affected the musician and influenced his artistic expression. The scene drew strong emotional reactions from the audience, with many moved to tears by the actors’ performance.

    The production further examined Obey’s transition into evangelism, showing how his Christian faith reshaped his music and life direction. 

    The story underscored themes of perseverance, discipline, faith, and consistency, presenting Obey’s life as both an artistic journey and a moral lesson.

    Directed by Joseph Edgar, popularly known as the Duke of Somolu, the production was praised for its attention to detail, from costumes and makeup to stage design and orchestration. The live band performed several of Obey’s classic songs, prompting many audience members to sing along during the show.

    Speaking after the performance, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to promoting arts and culture in Nigeria.

    “FirstBank is committed to creating memorable homecoming experiences during the festive season, from family reunions to cultural celebrations. Our partnership with the Duke of Somolu on this production reflects our long-standing support for the creative industry and the arts,” Ijabiyi said.

    He added that FirstBank, through its First@arts initiative, has 131 years of history supporting Nigeria’s creative sector, and encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of the entertainment offerings under the bank’s DecemberIssaVybe campaign.

    DecemberIssaVybe is FirstBank’s annual festive campaign designed to boost Nigeria’s arts and entertainment industry by providing platforms for live performances, concerts and cultural events throughout December. The campaign targets both local and international audiences, offering, as the bank describes, a premium homecoming experience.

    FirstBank also disclosed that preparations are already underway for the 2026 edition of DecemberIssaVybe, with plans to deliver more entertainment experiences for customers and the general public.

  • Forget Jarvis, get back to streaming – Carter Efe advises Peller

    Forget Jarvis, get back to streaming – Carter Efe advises Peller

    Popular streamer Carter Efe has urged his heartbroken colleague Peller to return to work and stop nursing his broken heart following his bitter split with Jarvis.

    20-year-old Peller had been scarce on social media since the breakup, which led to his ‘deliberate’ car accident.

    The accident occurred on December 14th, which left him hospitalised and before the crash, he posted a video stating he intended to take his own life, saying “I will kill myself, my body is shaking”.

    During a recent livestream, Carter Efe scolded Peller for attempting to take his life over a woman and urged him to return to work.

    He advised Peller to stop isolating himself and focus on his streaming career.

    Carter Efe also referenced the wife of late musician Mohbad, advising Peller to learn from her experience and move on.

    “Make them tell Peller make him come back, I no know wetin Peller dey do for house o. Woman na him wan make am dey dey indoor. Him never know, make him go ask Mohbad wife.

    “Na because of woman him wan kill- some people eh! You dey craz£? Come back let’s stream. Abi you no dey hear wetin happen to Mohbad wife, na him you wan go k!ll yourself?”, he said.

  • Jerry Eze thanks God as YouTube channel becomes third most watched globally

    Jerry Eze thanks God as YouTube channel becomes third most watched globally

    Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International and convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration (NSPPD), Pastor Jerry Eze, has expressed gratitude to God after his YouTube channel emerged as the third most watched in the world, excluding gaming platforms.

    In a post on X, Eze praised God for the milestone recorded by the digital prayer platform, noting that achieving global viewership dominance was never part of its original vision.

    He thanked Jesus for the accomplishment, describing himself as a flawed young man from the “backside of the desert,” and attributed the success entirely to God’s grace working through him.

    The cleric also appreciated his global audience, stressing that the achievement belongs to everyone who joins him in prayer every working day.

    Eze wrote, “This was definitely not our Mission but see what God has done. Third Most Watched YouTube Channel in the World away from Gaming sites. I don’t even know what to say but to just say – Thank you Jesus !!!

    “This Flawed Young man from the backside of the desert, you chose to show forth your Might through. This wasn’t the mission but Lord , I will be a fool not to say thank you Abba ; thank you El-roi. The Kingdoms of this World have become the Kingdoms of our God.

    “To Everyone all over the Globe who joined us in Prayers every working day. This is for all of us. To god be the glory !!!”

  • Actress Mary Njoku warns against ingratitude

    Actress Mary Njoku warns against ingratitude

    Actress Mary Njoku has issued a stern warning against ingratitude, urging individuals to appreciate unexpected help from God.

    In an Instagram post, Njoku emphasised the importance of receiving assistance with gratitude and wisdom.

    She cautioned against placing undue burden on helpers, turning divine assistance into a subscription, and rewriting history when support ceases.

    Njoku stressed that people often drain others, only to later dismiss the good they’ve done.

    The actress concluded with a pointed reminder to reflect on one’s actions. 

    She wrote, “Whether God sends you a helper you didn’t expect, take the help with gratitude and wisdom. Don’t be ungrateful by placing the weight of your entire generation on that person.

    “Don’t turn divine assistance into a Subscription. Use your head. You drain people to the point where, once they stop helping, you rewrite history and dismiss all the good they ever did.

    “And you still wonder who the village people are. Use your mirrow bro.”

  • Hack4Futo expands focus on practical innovation, responsible tech development

    Hack4Futo expands focus on practical innovation, responsible tech development

    Hack4Futo is set to deepen its impact as a hub for practical innovation and responsible technology development, with plans for its next edition pointing to more advanced technical tracks, stronger mentorship and increased collaboration with industry players.

    Founded to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and real-world problem-solving, Hack4Futo has evolved into an annual innovation platform that emphasises hands-on learning, collaboration and impact-driven solutions.

    Its founder, Chibueze Sam-Obisike, said the initiative was created to provide a structured environment where ideas could be tested, skills refined and technology applied to real societal and industry challenges.

    “Hack4Futo was created to give people a space to learn by building, collaborate meaningfully and see technology as a tool for impact,” he said. “There were talented individuals with ideas and drive, but no clear platform to experiment or showcase what they could do.”

    From its modest beginnings, Hack4Futo has grown organically into a recognised annual innovation hub, attracting wider participation, stronger mentorship and more sophisticated projects. According to the founder, this evolution has been marked by deeper technical engagement, greater diversity of ideas and a clear shift towards solutions that address broader societal and industry needs.

    “People are no longer just participating for the experience,” he noted. “There is now a stronger focus on innovation, sustainability and long-term relevance.”

    Central to Hack4Futo’s vision is challenging limiting mindsets around innovation and impact. The platform promotes the belief that meaningful solutions can be created locally and immediately, without waiting for external validation or future opportunities.

    “In today’s fast-changing world, adaptability, curiosity and ethical responsibility are just as important as technical competence, Hack4Futo reinforces that balance”, Chibueze said. 

    The initiative also underscores the importance of structured innovation platforms in unlocking Nigeria’s vast tech potential. By encouraging collaboration, mentorship and responsible experimentation, Hack4Futo helps convert raw talent into practical capability and viable solutions.

    Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, form a key part of Hack4Futo’s thematic focus. Challenges are designed to reflect global technological trends while remaining grounded in local realities, encouraging participants to apply AI and data-driven tools to areas such as education, healthcare, finance, agriculture and governance.

    “We don’t just focus on using AI,” the founder explained. “We emphasise understanding its impact, its limitations and the responsibilities that come with it.”

    Ethics and integrity are woven into every stage of the Hack4Futo process. Through mentorship sessions and evaluation criteria, participants are challenged to consider privacy, fairness, transparency and accountability, ensuring that innovation aligns with societal good.

    This emphasis also informs Hack4Futo’s clear stance against cybercrime and unethical tech practices. The organisers stress that while economic pressures exist, unethical paths offer only short-term benefits and long-term consequences.

    Chibueze said, “Technology can either build systems that serve society or erode trust, We encourage people to create value, solve problems and build sustainable careers they can be proud of.”

    Looking ahead, the next edition of Hack4Futo is expected to feature deeper technical tracks, stronger industry collaboration and clearer pathways for standout ideas to evolve beyond the hackathon into products or startups.

    For emerging tech talents, Chibueze stated that his advice remains consistent: start early, build consistently, stay ethical and focus on solving real problems. “Technology is most powerful when it serves people,” the founder said. “Build something you can stand behind for years to come.”

  • Circuits & Euphoria 360 ignite nollywood with Agesinkole — Kings of Thieves

    Circuits & Euphoria 360 ignite nollywood with Agesinkole — Kings of Thieves

    The African film industry witnessed a cinematic spectacle as virtual cinema powerhouse Circuits, in collaboration with Euphoria 360, unveiled “Agesinkole: Kings of Thieves, Part 2” on the big screen. 

    The epic sequel captivated movie lovers and is already being hailed as one of the most ambitious and visually stunning film projects to emerge from the African continent.

    Renowned as Africa’s premier virtual cinema platform, Circuits continues to redefine how African stories are told and consumed globally. 

    Produced by celebrated actor and filmmaker Femi Adebayo, the epic Yoruba sequel delivers powerful storytelling, stunning visuals, and rich cultural depth, quickly earning its place as one of Nollywood’s most ambitious recent releases.

    Known for redefining how African stories are experienced, Circuits is rolling out the film through community cinema activations across the South West, taking premium cinema directly to grassroots and underserved communities.

    The project was co-produced by Circuits, Euphoria 360, and Hawk Studios, with Blue Pictures serving as the official distributor highlighting a strong collaboration driving African cinema forward.

    Speaking at the premiere, Chief Operating Officer of Circuits, Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, said the project was built around access and inclusion.

    “This is about giving everyone, regardless of location, the chance to experience great African storytelling on the big screen,” she noted.

    She also revealed that Circuits, which officially launched in December 2024, is marking its first anniversary with the co-production of the epic sequel.

    The premiere was a star-studded affair, drawing top Nollywood names including Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Chatta, Mercy Aigbe, Yemi Solade, Jaye Kuti, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju, Hon. Kolawole Ajeyemi, Segun Arinze, Zaaki Azzay, and many others too numerous to mention.

    With strong buzz and a community-driven rollout, Agesinkole: Kings of Thieves, Part 2 is set to make waves across the South West and beyond, as Circuits continues to champion bold, accessible African storytelling.

    With optimism she declared that Agesinkole: Kings of Thieves,  Part 2 is poised to become one of Africa’s biggest film exports yet, as Circuits positions itself at the forefront of a global renaissance in African cultural storytelling.

  • First Lady donates 1,000 bags of rice to Christians in Bauchi

    First Lady donates 1,000 bags of rice to Christians in Bauchi

    The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has donated 1,000 bags of 25kg rice to the Christian Northern Nigeria Political Forum (CNNPF) in Bauchi State to support Christians during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

    Mr Ayuba Dogara, State Coordinator of the Forum, disclosed this on Saturday during the distribution of the items across Bauchi.

    He said the rice would be equitably shared across all 20 Local Government Areas.

    Dogara explained that beneficiaries would include members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), women and youth groups, associations, and other vulnerable persons, describing the intervention as timely and thoughtful amid festive preparations.

    According to him, the gesture reflected solidarity and appreciation for CNNPF members who have supported the nation’s leadership even before the inception of the current administration, showing empathy and recognition of their contributions.

    He linked the initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting its focus on inclusion, compassion, and opportunity for all Nigerians, regardless of background or social status, especially during the festive season.

    “The distribution of Christmas packages to Christian families across Northern Nigeria is a testament to the First Lady’s deep sense of empathy, commitment to national service, and moral leadership,” Dogara said.

    He urged citizens to continue living in peace and harmony, emphasising that meaningful nation-building thrived in an atmosphere of mutual understanding, unity, and cooperation among communities across the country.

    Dogara also called on local government coordinators to ensure fair and transparent distribution of the items, ensuring that the donation reached intended beneficiaries without discrimination or bias.

    In his remarks, Mr Istifanus Manasseh, APC Chairman of Bogoro Local Government Area, commended President Tinubu’s leadership style, noting its emphasis on inclusiveness, citizen support, and programmes that addressed ordinary Nigerians’ needs.

    A beneficiary, Mr Bage Maitandu, expressed gratitude for the gesture, pledging continued support for the Tinubu administration and describing the donation as a symbol of care, encouragement, and shared hope during the festive season.

    (NAN)

  • Tinubu’s aide feeds 10,000 Oyo residents for Christmas

    Tinubu’s aide feeds 10,000 Oyo residents for Christmas

    An aide to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, through his Oyo Si Maa Dun Network (OSMD Network) has aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu to feed over 10,000 families across Oyo State.

    People from Ibadan, Ibarapa, Oyo town, Saki, Iseyin, and Ogbomoso, benefitted from Fagade’s expression of people-centred leadership.

    Fagade, who is the Director-General, National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), stated that OSMD Network brought Asiwaju Cares directly to people of the state.

    According to him, the initiative was a national vision which translated into local impact and reinforcing the Renewed Hope promise that governance must be felt in homes, streets, and communities.

    He said as part of the Christmas Day intervention, OSMD distributed hot meals to thousands of people on the streets, provided dry food items to households, gave cash gifts to support dignity, relief, and small-scale needs during the festive season.

    He noted that the outreach reflected core values of the Renewed Hope Agenda, social inclusion, shared prosperity, compassion, and a firm commitment towards leaving no Nigerian behind.

    According to him: “The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a policy framework; it is a moral obligation to care for the people. Asiwaju Cares means leadership that shows empathy and delivers practical support where it matters most.”

    Beyond Christmas, the OSMD Network remains committed to initiatives that strengthen livelihoods, empower youth, and promote shared growth fully aligned with the Renewed Hope vision of building a more caring, productive, and united Nigeria.

  • U.S. precision air strike in Sokoto approved by Tinubu – Information Minister

    U.S. precision air strike in Sokoto approved by Tinubu – Information Minister

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the successfully conducted precision strike operations against two major Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves was approved by President Bola Tinubu.

    Idris said the operation that targeted terrorist within the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto State was in close coordination with the Government of the United States of America,

    This is contained in a statement issued by Idris in Abuja on Friday.

    “Intelligence confirmed that these locations were being used as assembly and staging grounds by foreign ISIS elements infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel region, in collaboration with local affiliates, to plan and execute large-scale terrorist attacks within Nigerian territory.

    “The precision strike operations were executed between 00:12 hours and 01:30 hours on Friday, December 26, 2025, following explicit approval by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu,

    “The operation was carried out under established command and control structures, with the full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and under the supervision of Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff.

    “The strikes were launched from maritime platforms domiciled in the Gulf of Guinea, after extensive intelligence gathering, operational planning, and reconnaissance.

    “A total of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions were deployed using MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms, successfully neutralising the targeted ISIS elements attempting to penetrate Nigeria from the Sahel corridor,” Idris said.

    According to him, in the course of the operation, debris from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel.

    He added that no civilian casualties were recorded in both locations, and relevant authorities promptly secured the affected areas.

    “The Federal Government of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering resolve to confront, degrade, and eliminate terrorist threats, particularly those posed by transnational extremist networks seeking to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and security.

    “Nigeria remains fully aligned with its strategic partners and Friends of Nigeria in executing coordinated actions aimed at ensuring lasting peace, border security, and regional stability.

    “The Federal Government assures all Nigerians that it remains firmly in control of the national security architecture and is fully committed to the protection of lives and property.

    “Citizens are urged to remain calm and vigilant as decisive actions continue against all terrorist groups threatening the nation,” Idris added.

    (NAN)