The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Our performance will make Tinubu’s re-election easier in Rivers, says Fubara

    Our performance will make Tinubu’s re-election easier in Rivers, says Fubara

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that his administration’s performance will make the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu easier in the state.

    The governor, who spoke while inaugurating the Ihuowo-Ihuama Road and Ring Roads built by his administration in Ahoada-East on Tuesday, said based on his performance, it would not be difficult to convince the people to support the President.

    Fubara commended the people of Ahoada-East for their support to his administration and promised to fulfill the demands presented on their behalf by Eze Upata.

    Addressing the people, the governor said, “Why are we doing all these things? We are doing it so that when we come to you and talk to you that this is the way we are going which you already know that our support today is for Mr. President, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, it won’t be a difficult message to sell to our people. 

    “Our people will say yes, the person who is talking to us has proven himself in little things, so if you are coming to tell us that this is where you are, and where you are going, they will close their eyes and follow you.

    “So, I want to thank you and also prepare you because we will come with that message very soon. We have started it already. That is our position as at today.”

    The governor said his administration was moved by the outcries of the people following the condition of the road, which he described as a death trap.

    The governor recalled that prior to the construction, the Ihuowo-Ihuama road harboured high rate of kidnapping and remembered that Eze Apata told him that the road caused the death of of many pregnant women, who tried to access a hospital through the axis.

    Fubara said, “This corridor was a major one, that those people who don’t want our State to have peace, the criminals were using this entrance to access one other river here, before they get to the other side, the Emohua side of the river. 

    “But I can say today, that with what we have done, it won’t be business as usual for them anymore. So you understand why I don’t need to talk about this road. It is just to say thank you because we have not done anything unusual.It is listening to the need of our people and seeing that as a government we are able to attend to their need.”

    The governor appreciated the contractor for utilizing the funds made available by the government observing that the contractor seized the opportunity to redeem his previously battered image.

    Fubara vowed to keep providing services that would keep satisfying the needs of the people saying the administration would leave lasting legacies.

    Fubara particularly thanked Sir Ngozi Abi saying he proved to be his stepping stone to his current position. 

    He said, “If he had not called me to work with him I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to get the other contacts and relationships that I had that propelled me to where I am today. 

    “So let me first say thank you for laying the foundation that others also took upon. It is only God that will reward you. I say it here today so that you understand how emotional that I am coming here to commission this project.”

  • Drug rehab mandatory for Regina Daniels’ access to children – Ned Nwoko

    Drug rehab mandatory for Regina Daniels’ access to children – Ned Nwoko

    Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has addressed recent social media claims by his estranged wife, actress Regina Daniels, regarding access to their two sons, Munir and Khalifa.

    In a statement released by his communication team on Tuesday, titled “Take the Window of Quietude for Therapy,” Nwoko refutes allegations that he is deliberately preventing Daniels from seeing the children or exploiting them publicly.

    The statement described Daniels’ posts as misleading and inconsistent with established family practices.

    It noted that sharing family moments with the children has long been a tradition, adding that Daniels herself has frequently posted photos and videos of not only her own children but also those of Nwoko’s other wives, without prior concerns about privacy or exploitation.

    Nwoko’s team emphasised that Daniels’ absence from the children’s lives has been voluntary, stating she has prioritised social engagements and nightlife over consistent presence, while the children are in a stable environment focused on routine and emotional well-being.

    He also added that an Abuja court has directed that Regina Daniels must undergo drug rehabilitation and be assessed by the Abuja Social Welfare Department before regaining access to the children.

    The matter is adjourned to February 4, 2026, for the substantive hearing.

    The dispute escalated publicly in October 2025 with allegations of substance abuse and domestic issues, leading to this custody focused development.

  • FG to improve literacy, reading culture among children in IDP camps

    FG to improve literacy, reading culture among children in IDP camps

    The federal government has disclosed plans to improve reading culture and reduce illiteracy levels among children living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across the country.

    This was disclosed by the Director for IDPs at the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Fatima Maman Daura, during the launch of two books to commemorate the 16 days of activism and to restore the hope of the girl child in North-East Nigeria.

    She also disclosed plans to distribute the books authored by Mrs Teresa Ameh to children in IDP camps as part of measures to improve reading culture. 

    She said, “We will purchase and distribute the books for the benefit of our displaced children. We set up transitional learning centres across states where we have high displaced populations and the transitional learning centres are designed to provide accelerated learning for displaced children.

    “We have centres in Abuja, Katsina, Bauchi, Zamfara, Cross River and Imo and we’re hoping to expand as we get more resources. 

    “Part of our interventions is to improve literacy and numeracy and provide education; bridge the gap for the IDP children and then transition them into conventional schools. These books will improve their literacy because the books were written by a Nigerian author.”

    The Author of the book, Mrs. Teresa Ameh, said she met all the requirements to attract children’s attention.

    She said, “I have been writing for children for the past 20 years now

    The books launched are colorful, they are not voluminous, the size is just the right size for children because their attention span is very short and we need to give them what they need.”

    On the importance of reading, she said, “Media houses should also help encourage children to read by coming up with jingles or columns in the newspapers because reading helps form the mind. 

    “We are trying to bring up children that can interact with other children anywhere. We want to go beyond having children who know mathematics, we want them to be well grounded on different topics.”

    “When we talk about adults who don’t read, it’s because we brought up children. Children who don’t read will grow up to become adults who don’t read too. So, we need to start changing and encourage our young.ones to imbibe reading culture.”

  • Wike hails Tinubu’s appointment of Prof Orluwene as UNIPORT teaching hospital CMD

    Wike hails Tinubu’s appointment of Prof Orluwene as UNIPORT teaching hospital CMD

    The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday hailed the appointment of Professor Chituru Godwill Orluwene as the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH).

    The minister, who also thanked President Bola Tinubu, for finding yet another Rivers State indigene worthy of a federal appointment, said, “The President has consistently demonstrated his love for Rivers State and its people, and we will keep supporting him to continue with his good governance.”

    In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the Minister described Prof Orluwene’s appointment as “President Tinubu putting another round peg in a round hole,” urging him to use his wealth of experience to improve on the state of the Teaching Hospital, in line with Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He also thanked the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, for recommending the appointment of Prof Orluwene.

    “I congratulate Prof Orluwene on this appointment and urge him to work collaboratively with all stakeholders in UPTH to ensure the continued delivery of quality healthcare services to Nigerians,” he said.

  • Stakeholders converge in Abuja as firm launches advocates quality medication in community health

    Stakeholders converge in Abuja as firm launches advocates quality medication in community health

    Stakeholders from the health sector and the wider community gathered in Abuja on Friday, December 13, 2025, as AYMA Pharmacy and Stores commenced operations, with its management stressing the importance of quality medication in strengthening community health.

    The opening of the pharmaceutical outlet attracted healthcare professionals, community leaders, business stakeholders and residents of the area.

    Activities at the event included remarks from the management and a guided tour of the facility, during which guests were informed about the pharmacy’s services, operational standards and approach to patient care.

    Speaking at the event, a representative of the pharmacy, Mrs Aysha Magaji Bello, emphasised the need for access to genuine medicines and proper dispensing practices as part of broader efforts to improve public health.

    She said the availability of trusted medication, alongside professional pharmaceutical guidance, contributes to improved health outcomes and overall community wellbeing.

    Mrs Bello also noted that pharmacies have a responsibility to operate ethically by prioritising patient education and complying with regulatory requirements, rather than focusing solely on commercial interests. 

    She explained that AYMA Pharmacy and Stores was established to serve as a dependable healthcare provider for individuals and families.

    According to her, the outlet is positioned to respond to the growing demand for accessible pharmaceutical services in Abuja by offering essential medicines, wellness products and professional advice.

    Some attendees described the new pharmacy as a positive addition to the Wuse area, expressing optimism that its focus on quality and professionalism would enhance healthcare delivery within the community.

    The management of AYMA Pharmacy and Stores reaffirmed its commitment to supporting public health through trained personnel, reliable medication and a service-oriented approach as it begins full operations.

  • First Lady lifts 250 elderly citizens in Oyo

    First Lady lifts 250 elderly citizens in Oyo

    First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme, has enhanced well-being of 250 elderly citizens across Oyo State.

    At the 3rd Edition of her Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) with the theme “Finding Joy in old age”, each of the 250 elderly citizens received N200,000 each.

    Speaking at the event in Ibadan, the First Lady, who was represented by wife of Oyo Governor, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde urged the elderly to prioritise their heath and spend quality time with their loved ones.

    She stated that the occasion would provide further support to the elderly citizens during the Christmas and New year festive season.

    She said: “A total of One Billion, Nine Hundred Million Naira (N1,900,000,000) will be disbursed across the nation. The RHI Coordinators in the 36 States of the federation, the FCT and DEPOWA have received Fifty Million Naira (N50,000,000) each, out of which N200,000 will be distributed today to each beneficiary. In addition to this, free medical check-ups and other sundry items will be provided”.

    According to the First Lady, the programme was aimed at reassuring the elderly that they were loved and not forgotten especially during the festive season.

    She reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu towards the wellbeing of all Nigerians.

    “This programme is designed to support the welfare of our elderly citizens annually. Two Hundred and Fifty elderly citizens, aged 65 and above in all 36 States of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) will be benefiting from this scheme.”

    Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun described the event as a clear demonstration of compassion, care and commitment to the welfare of the elderly citizens.

    She stated that the state is deeply honored by the love and concern shown by Mrs Tinubu who extended support and encouragement to senior citizens in the state.

    She also thanked Makinde’s wife for her dedication towards the wellbeing of people.

    She noted that the event reflected government shared belief that the elderly deserve dignity, quality healthcare and continuos support.

    She however said today’s outreach will not only improved health outcomes but also reaffirmed collective responsibility to cater or those who have contributed immensely to the development of the society.

  • Senator Kalu appreciates Varsity for naming building after him

    Senator Kalu appreciates Varsity for naming building after him

    The Senator representing Abia North Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has appreciated the board and management of the Southern Atlantic University in Uyo, Akwa ibom state for naming its administrative block after him.

    In a letter of appreciation by the former Abia Governor to our correspondent in Uyo on Tuesday, Kalu said he felt honoured by the gesture extended to him by a private university in Akwa ibom state.

    He acknowledged the pivotal role education plays in the socioeconomic and political development of any nation, urging that Nigeria and her leaders should continue to build brighter future for citizens through investments in education.

    He said: “I remain committed to leveraging this recognition to further support, encourage and empower you to promote educational initiatives and champion policies that improve scientific research and innovations in tertiary institutions, such as yours in Nigeria.

    “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the youth of our nation have the opportunities they need to succeed. Once again I thank you for your support and this gesture of goodwill. 

    “I pledge to continue working diligently for the advancement of our beloved country and to uphold the values that this honour represents”

    On why he named the administrative building after Senator Kalu, the founder of Southern Atlantic University, Pastor Bassey James, described that the former Abia state governor as a detribalized Nigerian and a man of the people.

    “This is a well conceived decision in appreciation of a Man I met many years ago in Lagos state and he took me in as a younger  brother and  mentored me to face life and achieve success. 

    “Dr Kalu is a Man after God’s heart, a detribalized Nigerian and a Man of the people. He accepted as a younger brother and assisted me to rise in life. 

    “He gave me access to relate with his friends no matter their status and genuinely groomed me into what I have become today in life. Senator Kalu gave me a huge surprise in support of the success of my wedding in 1995 and I appreciate his benevolence.  

    “I met Senator orji Kalu about 11 years before he became the  Abia state governor, he is a successful business Man and with a big network of friends and admirers. His home was  kind of Mecca for all Nigerians and he loves humanity. Senator Kalu touched my life very positively and helped me discover the essence of reaching out to people especially those in need. 

    “Kalu’s home is open to all Nigerians and even foreigners. Igbere community is always visited by people from all walks of life. He never segregates but works with people no matter where they come from. 

    “In his employ are people from all walks of life and he gives equal opportunity to all irrespective of your background. I will not tell the complete story of my life without Senator orji Uzor Kalu and my decision to name our university’s administrative block after him is my little way of saying thank you for his mentorship and kindness”, he said.

  • ‘Supreme Court’s decision on Rivers’ emergency rule plus for nation’s democracy,’ – Fagbemi

    ‘Supreme Court’s decision on Rivers’ emergency rule plus for nation’s democracy,’ – Fagbemi

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has hailed Monday’s decision by the Supreme Court, affirming the President’s power to declare emergency rule in any state of the federation and suspend elected officials in the affected state.

    Fagbemi, in a statement on Tuesday, said the Supreme Court’s judgment “is a win for all Nigerians,” adding that the decision “is a further consolidation to Nigeria’s fledging democracy and has cleared whatever doubt anyone might have had.”

    The statement, issued by his spokesman, Kamarudeen Ogundele, said Fagbemi spoke while reacting to the Supreme Court judgement delivered on Monday in a suit filed by Adamawa State and 10 other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led states, challenging the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State in March.

    Ogundele quoted Fagbemi as saying, “I welcome the judgement of the Supreme Court affirming the power granted the President by the constitution to declare a state of emergency in any state in Nigeria, whenever the situation arises.

    “The landmark judgement has further strenghtened our jurisprudence and added another vital ingredients to consolidate our democracy.

    “I congratulate all parties in the matter as it is a win for our fledging democracy and has helped to erase any doubt anyone might have had about the action of the President and the endorsement by the National Assembly.

    “Nigeria is for all of us, and I assure Nigerians of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to uphold the tenets of democracy and the Rule of Law at all times.”

  • Police arrest 10 suspects in gun, drug crackdown

    Police arrest 10 suspects in gun, drug crackdown

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arrested ten suspects across Plateau, Adamawa, Kaduna, Zamfara, Lagos, Ondo, Kogi and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in a series of coordinated intelligence-led operations targeting gunrunning, drug trafficking, and kidnapping networks.

    The operations led to the recovery of a total sum of N150,000, alongside the seizure of 19 firearms, including seven AK-47 rifles, three pump-action guns, two single-barrelled guns, two Beretta pistols and four locally fabricated revolver rifles.

    Also, 189 rounds of live ammunition, magazines, assorted cartridges, and large quantities of illicit drugs, including 24 bags of Indian hemp and other controlled substances, were confiscated.

    The achievements were disclosed on Tuesday by the force spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, who provided an overview of the arrests, recoveries, and ongoing investigations linked to the coordinated operations. 

    Operatives of the Force Intelligence Department carried out the operations—Intelligence Response Team, which relied on sustained intelligence gathering, inter-agency collaboration, surveillance, targeted interception, and follow-up investigations to dismantle interconnected criminal supply chains spanning multiple states.

    Providing details, Hundeyin said the operatives moved into Plateau State on September 9, 2025, following credible intelligence that led to the arrest of Adamu Zaki Babangida, a suspected gunrunner. A pump-action rifle was recovered at the point of arrest.

    Further investigation resulted in the recovery of four locally fabricated revolver rifles in the same state on October 23, 2025, as investigators intensified efforts to trace other members of the syndicate.

    On October 23, 2025, intelligence tracking unlawful firearm possession led to the arrest of Chibuke Nnaji in Plateau State, where a fake gun permit was recovered.

    Follow-up investigation linked the document to Joshua Izang, also known as Buffalo, whose arrest resulted in the recovery of a pump-action rifle, two single-barreled guns, and live cartridges, with further suspects still being traced.

    Operatives arrested Daudume Bayina in Adamawa State on October 26, 2025, after weeks of intelligence gathering.

    Hundeyin said his arrest led to the recovery of “two Beretta pistols, ammunition, and magazines, while investigation revealed that the weapons were intended for delivery to a border community and that the suspect had operated as an arms supplier for over a year.”

    Ongoing investigations into arms supply networks resulted in the arrest of John Magah and Ishaya Stephen, whose activities were linked to the provision of weapons to bandits operating around the Adamawa and Cameroon border axis.

    “An AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, ammunition, and cartridges were recovered, while the investigation showed that one of the suspects was involved in gun fabrication and sales spanning several years,” he said.

    On November 2, 2025, operatives working with the Department of State Services intercepted a vehicle in Kaduna State and arrested Ifeanyi Egbeke.

    The operation led to the recovery of tramadol, codeine, injection syrups, hypnos tablets, and Indian hemp.

    Investigation revealed that the drugs were supplied to criminal groups across Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto states through a wider distribution network still under investigation.

    He continued, “Intelligence tracking gunrunning routes into bandit enclaves led operatives to Birnin Tasaba village in Zamfara state, where Salisu Mohammed, also known as Mande Dawa, was arrested.

    “An AK-47 rifle, magazines, and 32 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from a concealed millet bag, while investigation showed long-term involvement in arms delivery to bandits along the Obajana axis of Kogi State.”

    Operatives also intercepted a trailer travelling from Lagos to Abuja and arrested Uchenna Ikpe after discovering 24 bags of Indian hemp concealed in the vehicle.

    The suspect disclosed that he was to be paid N150,000 for transporting the drugs, while the investigation continues to identify those behind the shipment.

    In a related operation in Kaduna State, Yunana Iliya, also known as Bado, was arrested following intelligence indicating active arms dealing and kidnapping-related activities.

    Five AK-47 rifles and 150 rounds of live ammunition were recovered, while the investigation linked the suspect to a broader criminal conspiracy involving arms supply and child abduction, with other suspects currently at large.

    Hundeyin stated that investigations remain ongoing across all cases to dismantle remaining networks and recover additional weapons and illicit substances linked to the arrested suspects.

  • Peller: FRSC warns celebrities, influencer against road filming

    Peller: FRSC warns celebrities, influencer against road filming

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a stern warning to celebrities, social media influencers, and content creators, against using public roads to create online content, citing the dangers and illegality of the practice.

    The FRSC’s stance was prompted by a viral video showing TikToker Peller live-streaming while driving, which led to a road crash.

    Corps Marshal, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, in a statement signed by the corps spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide, emphasised that using phones to record or stream while driving distracts drivers, putting lives at risk, and is a clear breach of traffic laws.

    According to Mohammed, the FRSC will take legal action against anyone involved in reckless driving, phone use while driving, or distracted driving, with the Lagos state sector commander set to initiate proceedings.

    The FRSC also calls on entertainment groups and influencer communities to educate members on safe driving practices.

    “Expectedly, the Corps Marshal therefore calls on Actors Guilds, entertainment associations, influencer networks and content creator communities to urgently rein in their members and promote responsible conduct, particularly on Nigerian roads.

    “Celebrities and influencers wield enormous influence, especially among young Nigerians, and must be seen as ambassadors of safety, not symbols of recklessness”, Mohammed said.

    The FRSC warns that it will apply the full weight of the law against anyone found engaging in distracted or reckless driving, regardless of their social status.

    “FRSC will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any individual, celebrity or otherwise, found engaging in distracted or reckless driving. No social media content, online trend or momentary clout is worth a human life”, the statement concluded.