The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • APC group seeks review of Osun primary committee appointment

    APC group seeks review of Osun primary committee appointment

    A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, known as the Kogi APC Renaissance Forum, has called on the national leadership of the party to review an appointment made to the committee overseeing the 2025 Osun State governorship primary election.

    The group, through its spokesperson, Adejo Emmanuel, made the appeal following the inclusion of some individuals as members of the primary election committee.

    In a statement made available to journalists on Saturday, the forum expressed concern that the appointment could reflect negatively on the party, given the sensitivity and importance of the Osun governorship primary.

    According to the group, the APC has a wide pool of experienced and credible party members who could be entrusted with such a crucial responsibility. 

    It stressed that the process of selecting the party’s governorship candidate should inspire confidence among party members and the general public.

    The forum urged the national chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yiltwatda,  to reconsider the decision in the interest of party unity, credibility and public perception, noting that transparent and widely accepted processes are vital to strengthening the party ahead of future elections.

    The group therefore appealed for a review of the appointment as part of efforts to preserve the integrity of the party and ensure a credible primary election capable of producing a broadly accepted flag bearer for the Osun governorship election.

  • HEDA reaffirms commitment to integrity, accountability at Gani Fawehinmi awards

    HEDA reaffirms commitment to integrity, accountability at Gani Fawehinmi awards

    The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting integrity, justice and accountability in Nigeria.

    The organisation made the declaration at the 8th edition of the Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards (GFIIA), held in commemoration of the 2025 International Human Rights Day with the theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.”

    Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Mr Olanrewaju Suraju, described the awards as a moral compass that continues to remind the nation of the values exemplified by the late legal icon, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, including courage in the face of oppression, unwavering integrity and a lifelong commitment to justice and human rights.

    Suraju noted that the 2025 edition was significant as it aligns with the global theme of the International Human Rights Day, stressing that at a time of growing inequality, civic repression and widening social divisions, the defence of human rights and accountability has become more urgent than ever.

    He said the awards celebrate Nigerians who continue to resist corruption and uphold transparency, adding that the stories of the honourees demonstrate that integrity remains possible, powerful and impactful, even in challenging times.

    The HEDA chairman also announced a new partnership with the Gani Fawehinmi Students’ Chambers, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, which co-hosted the event. 

    According to him, the collaboration reflects the belief that building a culture of integrity must begin with mentorship, youth engagement and early inspiration.

    Suraju commended the MacArthur Foundation, nominees, awardees, civil society partners and members of the media for their sustained support for the GFIIA.

    “As we honour these exceptional Nigerians, we must remember that integrity is not just a virtue but the foundation for national transformation,” he said, urging Nigerians to stand for what is right, defend human dignity and work towards a future defined by fairness, justice and opportunity.

    At the event, Dr Mrs Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida emerged winner of the Outstanding Integrity Award category, while Barrister Olumide Kayode-Omosebi and Mr Offiong Charles Ikpeme were named first and second runners-up respectively. 

    In the Valuable Whistle Blower category, Pastor Nicholas Evaritus won the award, with Builder Kunle Awoodu as first runner-up.

    For the Outstanding Impact Award category, Hajiya Aishatu A’yan Guru Nahuce was announced as winner, while Mary Ngozi Kekwaaru and Dayyabu Bala Gezawa emerged first and second runners-up respectively. Yetunde Abimbola-Alebiosu won the Nigerians in Diaspora Integrity Ambassador Award.

    Speaking after the event, the founder and executive director of The Gnosis Help Initiative and first runner-up in the Outstanding Integrity Award category, Olumide Kayode-Omosebi, commended HEDA for the recognition, describing it as a major encouragement for decades of humanitarian work carried out without financial reward.

    He said the award was motivating, noting that for about 25 years, his organisation had provided support to beneficiaries without collecting money, adding that public recognition of such efforts was both inspiring and encouraging.

  • Stakeholders seek innovative solutions to climate-driven food insecurity

    Stakeholders seek innovative solutions to climate-driven food insecurity

    Amid persistent weather fluctuations and a decline in food production that has driven up food prices, stakeholders in climate, agriculture and technology are advancing new ideas aimed at stabilising food systems and ensuring reliable food supply.

    This was the focus of a forum organised by the Digital and Technological Empowerment Innovation Initiative for Next Generation (Diniti8tive), which brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss policies, research, agricultural technology and development.

    Speaking at the forum, the moderator, Blessing Allen-Adebayo, said the discussions were central to Africa’s development, food systems and collective resilience to climate change.

    She noted that her work with communities across Nigeria and other parts of Africa had shown how the outcome of a single farming season could determine whether households thrive or struggle, underscoring the urgency of building resilient and sustainable food systems.

    “I’ve listened to extension workers describe how difficult it has become to keep pace of the weather patterns that keep changing and have stood where market prices swing so sharply immediately after a flood and it has been difficult for them to survive through this season.

    “Many of these stories used to sound like isolated shocks, but today they have become a part of our wider continental pattern because Africa is warming faster than the global average.”

    Mr Fidelis Ekom also narrated that Africa is standing at a critical intersection where climate disruption is no longer a distant risk, but a daily lived reality. He decried the fate of farmers across Africa

    “Farmers are losing their crops to our unpredictable rainfall. Communities are being displaced by flooding and climate shocks continue to undermine production systems, market stability, and household resilience in many regions.

    “Across the continent, We are witnessing the rise of a new generation of innovators, agri-tech developers, climate scientists, extension agents, data analysts, youth-led enterprises, and community champions, working tirelessly to transform African agriculture from risk-prone to resilient, from vulnerable to viable.”

    According to Ekom, “As climate changes or change the rules of agriculture, We, too, must rewrite the rules of how we design policies, deploy technology, and support farmers, especially the women and youth, who remain the backbone of our food systems.”

    On Climate risks management, Nkemjika Onuoha, warned that, “ if we fail to act, if we do nothing, climate induced disruptions could reduce crop yields by up to 20%. In Nigeria alone, flood, drought, extreme weather conditions is already costing us between $9 and $10 billion annually.

    Onuoha further stated that more than 26.5 million Nigerians are projected this year alone to face acute food insecurity. A trend that seems very worrisome.

    “The current systems that we have not enough to sustain basic food access. Without adaptation, we risk losing 6 to 30% of our GDP by 2025. And that’s something close to $400 billion.

    Onuoha pointed, “climate smart and adaptive seed varieties, improved water management and water harvesting systems, IoT enabled monitoring systems, artificial intelligence for early warning systems and disease detection, and precision farm management.”

    Other experts say what we need is not just about producing more food, but it’s about producing more food with smarter, more connected systems of storage, logistics and market access.

  • Carter Efe announces upcoming livestream with Davido

    Carter Efe announces upcoming livestream with Davido

    Comedian and content creator Carter Efe has revealed that Afrobeats superstar Davido has agreed to appear on a livestream with him.

    The announcement was made on Instagram, where Carter Efe shared a screenshot of his conversation with the singer, showing Davido’s response to the collaboration request.

    In the message, Davido wrote, “Let’s do a stream. When I’m back,” confirming his interest in the project and suggesting that the livestream will take place at a later date.

    Carter Efe, known for his viral hit “Who You Help?” and high-energy livestreams featuring celebrities, has built a strong following through consistent content creation.

    His fans have described him as one of Africa’s leading streamers.

  • Osun 2026: Tight security as 1,660 delegates set for APC guber primary

    Osun 2026: Tight security as 1,660 delegates set for APC guber primary

    Heavy security presence was recorded on Saturday at Ebunoluwa Hall, Osogbo, the venue for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary, where 1,660 delegates are expected to elect the party’s candidate for the 2026 election.

    The Nation recalls that the Chairman of the APC Primary Committee and Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebolo, had disclosed on Friday night during a meeting with party stakeholders in Osogbo that the affirmation method would be adopted for the primary.

    Members of the primary committee have since concluded the accreditation of delegates, with the process conducted under tight security provided by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

    Delegates are seated according to their respective local government areas, while prominent party chieftains continue to arrive at the venue.

    Details shortly… 

  • Why I don’t care about ratings – Fireboy DML

    Why I don’t care about ratings – Fireboy DML

    Afrobeats singer Fireboy DML has spoken about his approach to music and fame, revealing that he prioritises his fans’ opinions over critics and music ratings.

    In an episode of the 90s Baby podcast, the Peru hitmaker stated that as long as he has fans who love and support his music, he’s content.

    Fireboy added that he doesn’t care about being ranked among the top artists, as he knows he has fans who think he’s the best in the world.

    He said the mindset has helped him stay grounded and focused on his craft, rather than seeking validation from critics or industry insiders.

    “I don’t really care about Top 5 or Top 10, as long as I have fans who rate me. I know that I have fans that think I’m the best artiste in the whole world. And that is good enough for me. I’m a very contented person,” he said.

  • Foundation, group launch AI-powered exams preparatory platform

    Foundation, group launch AI-powered exams preparatory platform

    A Lagos based non-governmental organisation, Abosede Tomori Foundation (ATF) in partnership with Study AI has launched Nigeria’s first AI-powered examination preparatory platform designed to deliver syndicated digital learning and intelligent tutoring for final year Senior Secondary School students preparing for WAEC/NECO and JAMB.

    Two hundred SS3 students selected from secondary schools in Isolo and Ejigbo LCDAs within Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II of Lagos State are pilot beneficiaries of the scheme.

    ATF founder and Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, in a statement in Abuja noted that the initiative falls under the skills development and scholarship scheme, one of the foundation’s five core pillars.

    Tomori said: “We are excited to pioneer what we believe marks a paradigm shift in exam preparation—the deployment of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence.

    “Study AI has developed something truly innovative and unprecedented, and we are glad to support the preparation of high school students in my constituency. Our goal is to ensure that they excel in their final exams and secure admission into tertiary institutions.”

    This landmark initiative, according to him, aligns with the foundation’s commitment to enhancing access to quality education and fostering skills development.

    “For millions of Nigerian students, preparing for national examinations, it remains challenging due to limited access to quality materials, outdated study methods, and the absence of personalized academic support. These barriers contribute to persistently high failure rates across major national exams.

    “Studying AI directly addresses these gaps by offering a dynamic, curriculum-aligned digital learning environment powered by artificial intelligence. Through real-time corrections, adaptive study paths, gamified motivation systems, group study features, and realistic mock exams, the platform equips students with a more effective and engaging way to prepare for high-stakes tests.

    “Designed for scale, Study AI aims to support hundreds of thousands of learners nationwide as it expands,” the statement stated.

    Tomori added that the foundation intends to track performance on the platform, reward top achievers, address students’ needs through Study AI’s online support team and conduct mock examinations to ensure students are fully primed for success.

    The CEO of Study AI, Yvonne Momah, affirmed that the platform ushers in a new era in examination readiness for Nigerian students, emphasizing its focus on intelligent, personalised learning.

    “Our mission is to make high-quality education accessible, affordable, and engaging for every learner. With AI-driven tutoring, real-time feedback, and gamified motivation, we’re building a platform that truly understands students. This launch underscores our commitment to transforming exam preparation and unlocking brighter futures across the country,” Momah stated.

    The AI-powered exam preparatory platform comes on the heels of ATF’s successful ‘Back to School’ programme, which provided learning materials to hundreds of pupils in October 2025.

  • Wike at 58: No regret supporting President Tinubu

    Wike at 58: No regret supporting President Tinubu

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Saturday said he has no regrets for openly supporting President Bola Tinubu since 2022.

    Wike maintained that his position has remained consistent before, during and after the 2023 presidential election.

    The Minister, who spoke at a special event organised to mark his 58th birthday anniversary, said his political decisions are guided by the principles of character and integrity, adding that he never concealed his support for Tinubu from the outset.

    He recalled that during the build-up to the 2023 presidential election, he was the only leading figure from the main opposition party, who openly declared support for President Tinubu, a decision he said was based on equity, fairness and justice, as well as his conviction that power should shift to the South.

    According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA), Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the minister further argued that his leadership capacity was demonstrated in Rivers State during the elections, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the presidential poll while the PDP secured victories in the National Assembly, governorship, State House of Assembly and local government elections under his watch.

    At the birthday event held in the wee hours of today, in Wike’s residence in Abuja, leaders from different political divides gathered to celebrate the achievements and political impact of the former Rivers State Governor and current FCT Minister.

    In attendance were National Assembly lawmakers from Rivers State, serving and former members, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, chairmen of local government areas, as well as close friends and political associates.

    Speakers took turns to extol the virtues of the Minister, describing him as an achiever and astute politician whose impacts are visible across the country, urging him not to relent and assuring him of their continued support.

    Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, described the FCT Minister as the “naked wire” of Rivers politics.

    Akawor, who is the ex-Director-General of Nyesom Wike’s 2015 governorship campaign, said Wike’s feat had shown that President Bola Tinubu picked the right product from the PDP to work with.

    Also, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, who led 27 members of the House of Assembly to Wike’s residence, thanked the Minister for being a leader with a strong shoulder for everyone to lean on. 

    He promised the continued loyalty and support of the Assembly members to him, saying; “Wherever our leader (Wike) goes, we will follow him, whoever he is supporting, we will also support.”

    Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government and River State Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Allwell Ihunda, who spoke on behalf of Local Government Chairmen, extolled Wike’s virtues, describing as a consistent and compassionate leader.

    Others who spoke were Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Committee, Mohammed Abdulrahman, PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, PDP National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih, his All Progressives Congress counterpart, Hon Victor Giadom,

    former Governor of Abia State, Dr Okieze Ikpiazu, Senator (Prof) Sandy Onor, Senator Magnus Abe, Senator George Sekibo, Senator Bari Mpigi, and others. 

    In his response, the Minister thanked his political family and associates for standing solidly behind him, acknowledging the role they have played in shaping his leadership journey.

    He said he remained fulfilled working with his people and pledged to continue collaborating closely with them in the interest of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.

    Wike, who described criticism and abuses as one of the things that keep him going, added that he has never been bothered by those who abuse and criticise him.

    The event ended with special prayers for the Minister and his family.

  • Rivers NASS Caucus celebrates Wike at 58

    Rivers NASS Caucus celebrates Wike at 58

    Members of Rivers State Caucus in the National Assembly have felicitated the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief (Barr) Nyesom Wike, on his 58th birthday. 

    In a statement  by Senator Barry Mpigi, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Chinda (Minority Leader, House of Representatives), Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Dekor, Rep. Solomon Bob, Rep. Felix Nwaeke, Rep. Kelechi Nwogu, Rep. Cyril Hart, Rep. Victor Obuzor, and Rep. Blessing Amadi, the caucus commended Wike’s exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to the development of Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria as a whole.

    The statement highlighted Wike’s visionary guidance and firm resolve in driving progress, fostering unity, and empowering communities within the FCT. 

    The lawmakers expressed confidence his wisdom will continue to illuminate the path towards prosperity and sustainable development for the people he serves, wishing the minister good health, boundless happiness, and continued success in all his endeavors. 

    The caucus also expressed appreciation for his leadership and commitment to public service, stating that his legacy will inspire generations to come. 

    The statement read in parts: “On this special day, the Rivers State Caucus in the National Assembly, celebrates not only the anniversary of your birth but also the remarkable leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment you have shown to all especially the Federal Capital Territory and our great nation. Your visionary guidance and steadfast resolve have been instrumental in driving progress, fostering unity, and empowering communities within the FCT.

    “May this new year of your life be filled with abundant blessings, profound joy, and continued success in all your endeavors. May your wisdom continue to illuminate the path towards prosperity and sustainable development for the people you so diligently serve.

    “Wishing Your Excellency good health, boundless happiness, and the continued strength to lead with integrity and distinction. Happy Birthday, and may your legacy inspire generations to come.

    “With deepest respect and warmest congratulations”.

  • Naira rebounds, gains N1.65 against dollar at official market 

    Naira rebounds, gains N1.65 against dollar at official market 

    The Naira on Friday closed the week stronger with a gain of N1.65 against the U.S. dollar at the official market, after it traded at N1,454.41.

    According to data released on the official website of the Central Bank of Nigeria, this represents a 0.11 per cent gain when compared to Thursday when it traded at N1,456.06.

    The Naira, which opened the trading week with slight depreciation, experienced weeklong minimal losses trading at N1,455.38 on Wednesday.

    On Monday and Tuesday, the local currency traded at N1,451.86 and N1,454.38 respectively.

    (NAN)