The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • A’Ibom INPA reaffirms commitment to members’ welfare, synergy, sustainable growth

    A’Ibom INPA reaffirms commitment to members’ welfare, synergy, sustainable growth

    The Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Independent Newspaper Publishers Association (INPA), Akparawa Emmanuel Sam, has commended members of the association for their dedication and resilience in the publishing business, noting that INPA is fully registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria.

    He clarified that the Independent Newspaper Publishers Association in Akwa Ibom State was established strictly to advance the business interests of newspaper publishers, not as a political platform or government-aligned group.

    According to him, the association’s core mission is to create an enabling environment where publishers thrive through hard work, passion, and professional independence.

    “As independent-minded professionals, members of INPA are encouraged to embrace self-reliance. The association does not dictate what members should or should not publish. Each publisher retains full editorial independence,” he stated.

    Sam emphasized that INPA’s role is to offer support, foster collaboration, and create sustainable growth opportunities for publishing businesses. He stressed that he has never and would never influence the content of any member’s publication.

    “At no time would I influence the content of your publications. I cannot decide your editorial. What I give is advert and I pay for it, not news or anything in your medium,” he assured.

    The BoT Chairman further highlighted INPA’s commitment to building synergy among publishers through cooperation and shared strength, noting that the association evolved through consistent engagements aimed at unifying publishers in the state.

    He also explained that the presidency of INPA runs for a two-year term, with the possibility of renewal based on performance, adding that the association operates transparently and without zoning or political considerations.

    “Membership is open to all publishers who share the vision of advancing the newspaper business. Contributions are minimal and strictly for administrative needs such as registration, ensuring no member is financially burdened,” he said.

    Sam reiterated that INPA is not an opposition group but a professional body committed to constructive engagement and upholding journalistic integrity.

    “In summary, INPA is dedicated to the welfare of its members, fostering collaboration, and implementing strategies for the sustainability and growth of newspaper publishing in Akwa Ibom State,” he concluded.

    The meeting’s highlight was the presentation of CAC certificates of registration, the association’s constitution, and other official documents.

  • Forest embarrass champions Liverpool at Anfield

    Forest embarrass champions Liverpool at Anfield

    Liverpool’s season of abject misery worsened as they were beaten with embarrassing ease by a hugely impressive Nottingham Forest at Anfield.

    Arne Slot’s Premier League champions were looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat at Manchester City, but instead ran into a Forest side revitalised under new manager Sean Dyche and looking back to their best.

    Liverpool head coach Slot gave £125m British record signing Alexander Isak a start, but he was totally anonymous once more and only lasted 67 minutes.

    Forest went ahead after 33 minutes when defender Murillo shot powerfully past fit-again Liverpool keeper Alisson to subdue an already anxious Anfield.

    Igor Jesus had a second ruled out for handball, but Forest doubled their advantage 47 seconds after the break when former Liverpool defender Neco Williams set up Nicola Savona for a crisp finish in front of The Kop.

    Liverpool could barely raise a response in a desperate display, Forest increasing their lead 12 minutes from time when Morgan Gibbs-White scored after Alisson saved from Omari Hutchinson.

    It means Liverpool have now lost six of their past seven Premier League games as Slot’s near £450m summer spending spree comes under further scrutiny.

  • Why I quit Osun Gov race — APC National Secretary

    Why I quit Osun Gov race — APC National Secretary

    The National Secretary of All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru on Saturday dropped out of the 2026 Osun gubernatorial ambition. 

    Basiru, who is one of the leading gubernatorial aspirants, at the official commissioning of The Alubarika Movement House, Alekuwodo, Osogbo, disclosed that having consulted the leaders of the party especially President Bola Tinubu, he decided to quit the race.

    Addressing his supporters named Alubarika Movement, he said “Considering the enormous responsibilities of my current office as National Secretary of our great party and after due consultations with our esteemed leaders and stakeholders, particularly, the Leader of our party and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it has become necessary to emphatically state that I shall not be contesting the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election. 

    “The demands of national assignment, particularly the imperative of strengthening our party structures and the responsibilities of preparing for the 2027 general elections, require my unwavering commitment to the unity, success and stability of our party at all levels.”

    He noted that his decision does not signify a withdrawal from progressive visions but a renewed pledge to deepen commitment to continue working with leaders of APC in Osun State and Nigeria to nurture and support emerging political leaders in the party. 

    Basiru vowed that the Alubarika Movement will work with vigour to support the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. 

    Speaking about the 2026 Osun Governorship election, he expressed confidence that APC will win, asserting that his party is too formidable for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s government. 

    According to him: “I don’t have any doubts that our party, APC is strong enough anywhere to give anybody a run for their money including Osun State.”

  • I’m determined to eliminate bandits, terrorists, restore peace in North – Tinubu

    I’m determined to eliminate bandits, terrorists, restore peace in North – Tinubu

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to eliminate terrorist and bandit groups tormenting Northern Nigeria, declaring that no region of the country will be left to bleed while his government stands by.

    He said the layers and sophistication of the security crisis inherited were daunting, but his resolve to end the menace remains firm and urgent.

    Tinubu also pledged to reverse the long-running economic decline of the North, expressing optimism that the region is on the verge of a major turnaround with the anticipated rollout of crude oil from the Kolmani fields and other emerging oil prospects across the region.

    Speaking at the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, the President  who was represented by the Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas said the North is facing one of the gravest tests in its history, a corrosion of security, a collapse of communal ethics and a distortion of the moral compass that once held its communities together.

    He warned that Nigeria cannot prosper when a key part of its national body is “paralysed,” stressing that the North’s stability is essential to the peace and progress of the entire federation.

    Tinubu praised the ACF for serving as the conscience of the region for 25 years, describing the forum as a reservoir of patriots, thinkers, moral leaders and negotiators who have defended the dignity and interests of millions across the North.

    He noted that the founding fathers of the ACF anticipated moments of national strain and built an institution strong enough to articulate the hopes of the region. According to him, the North’s triumph will depend on the strength of its institutions rather than on strong individuals.

    The President said he attended the anniversary “not as a son of the region, but as a son of the Nigerian federation,” bound by duty and conscience to every part of the country. He urged leaders to embrace selflessness and moral responsibility, warning that privilege comes with accountability.

    Tinubu said the North has not failed, but could fail if leaders retreat from their obligation to be their brothers’ keepers. He noted that failure begins the day leaders sleep comfortably while millions sleep hungry or travel in fear across short distances.

    He insisted that hope is not lost, despite decades of dysfunction that weakened bonds and deepened distrust. The ethnic and religious diversity represented at the ACF anniversary, he said, signals the region’s readiness to overcome division and rebuild unity.

    According to him, rebuilding trust across communities is fundamental because insecurity will persist, economic stagnation will deepen and educational deficits will widen unless social harmony is restored.

    The President listed key interventions under his administration, including accelerated road, rail and river transport projects across the North. Chief among them is the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway, which he said would be completed and commissioned in Kano in the coming months.

    Tinubu described the proposed ACF Endowment Fund as a bold and visionary step toward securing the region’s future. He said the fund’s focus on girl-child education, youth skills development, peacebuilding and conflict resolution aligns with the country’s broader development agenda.

    He urged Northern leaders across government, traditional institutions and civil society to recommit themselves to the ideals that inspired the formation of the ACF 25 years ago, courage, justice, fairness and collective responsibility.

    Tinubu warned that unity remains the North’s strongest asset. Without it, he said, security initiatives will sputter, economic opportunities will slip away and the region’s political influence will diminish. But with unity, “there is no challenge the region cannot overcome.”

    The President concluded by calling on the ACF to continue acting as the moral compass of the region, asserting that the North has the capacity to reclaim its stability, rebuild its economy and remain a central pillar of Nigeria’s collective progress.

  • North’s insecurity, other challenges surmountable – Deputy Senate President

    North’s insecurity, other challenges surmountable – Deputy Senate President

    Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, has expressed optimism that Northern Nigeria can overcome its persistent security challenges, calling on leaders and stakeholders to unite and leverage available resources to restore peace and stability across the region.

    Speaking at the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, Jibrin said the North has the capacity to surmount insecurity, emphasizing that coordinated action and political will can replicate the successes seen in other parts of the country.

    He congratulated the ACF on its Silver Jubilee, praising the forum for serving as a unifying voice and advocating for solutions to challenges confronting Northern Nigeria while contributing to national development.

    On behalf of the Senate President and the Senate, Barau also honoured the founding fathers of the ACF, particularly those no longer alive, describing their foresight and sacrifice as critical to building a resilient North.

    Barau referred to a trend analysis presented earlier, noting that while such reports may highlight problems, they do not reflect the North’s long-standing culture of resilience and determination to confront challenges head-on.

    He acknowledged that insecurity in the region is a serious concern but stressed that similar threats exist across West Africa, and that solutions are achievable through collaboration, good leadership, and effective security coordination.

    Highlighting the readiness of Northern leaders at the federal level, Barau said the Speaker of the House, the Deputy Senate President, and other leaders are prepared to work together with states and local institutions to address the root causes of insecurity.

    He urged Northern governments and institutions to leverage increased revenues and engage the National Assembly to fund and support security initiatives, adding that where local resources fall short, the President is willing to intervene.

    The Deputy Senate President further called on the ACF to facilitate dialogue among leaders and stakeholders, stressing that inclusive conversations and coordinated efforts are key to designing sustainable solutions and ensuring the safety of communities.

    He concluded with a message of hope and determination, asserting that with unity, strategic action, and effective use of available resources, Northern Nigeria can overcome insecurity and reclaim its role as a stable, productive, and influential region within the federation.

  • Edo seeks urgent action on land dispute with Delta

    Edo seeks urgent action on land dispute with Delta

    Edo State Government has begged President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in the land dispute between it and neighbouring Delta State.

    It called for justice, equity, and fairness to prevail in the disputed areas.

    Edo Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, made the appeal when he led a delegation comprising members of the Edo State Boundary Committee on a fact finding mission to the disputed communities.

    Idahosa said the State remained committed to protect territorial dignity of the state and the people of Orhionmwon.

    He insisted that Jameson River remained the natural demarcation landmark to the disputed Ugbakele boundary Community.

    “I passionately call on the President to use all necessary demarcation agencies to resolve these lingering issues.

    “We decided to ask questions and history of this area. We found out that this Jameson River is the natural boundary between Edo and Delta States.

    ‘You can see the previous structures of the AT&P company. This land is clearly for Edo State.

    “We thank the community people and settlers. We plead they continue to maintain the peace pending the outcome of the National Boundary Commission,” he pleaded.

    The Edo Deputy Governor also met with community leaders of Oben, Ikobi, Iguelaba, and Obozogbe-Nugu communities to verify their claims and grievances.

    The communities complained of non recognition by oil companies operating in the area.

    They also decried cedeing of their communal land to private individuals by the immediate past administration of the state without compensation.

    “The previous government has done injustice to the Edo people by allocating land to investors without having interactive sessions with us.”

  • Gas explosion claims three in Ibadan

    Gas explosion claims three in Ibadan

    No fewer than three persons were burnt beyond recognition when a gas tank exploded at Idi-Iroko, Amuloko, Ona-Ara local government area of Oyo State.

    The incident, which occurred on Friday night, also destroyed properties valued at millions 

    It was gathered that one of the victims was identified as the owner of the tank farm but the identities of the other victims could not be ascertained as at time of filing the reports.

    According to sources, the explosion occurred when  a gas tanker with registration number LSR268YC loaded with 15 tonnes capacity of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) was offloading the content into the gas skid tank.

    A source said: “Even though we could not say exactly what triggered the explosion, the only thing I know is that there was a blast which was accompanied by fire.

    “It was late in the evening. Both the passersby and Farm tankers scampered for safety but three persons were unlucky as they were consumed by fire.

    “Aside the recorded death, the valuables including blocks of residential building were razed by fire.”

    Also confirming the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor, on fire reform/ Chairman Fire Services Agency Moroof Akinwande said three lives were lost to the incident.

    According to him: “It was a gas tanker Regd. No LSR268YC loaded with 15 tonnes capacity of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) that exploded while transferring the content into the gas skid tank.

    “The blast damaged two vehicles and a residential building;  three persons were recovered and handed over to a team of policemen from Akanran Division. 

    “The operation was jointly carried out with a crew of firemen from Federal Fire Service, Ibadan Command.

    “The explosion sparkled panic among  residents, the prompt arrival of our officers contained the situation”

    The chairman  emphasised the importance of obtaining the Fire service , DPR and other stakeholders approval before installing gas tank or cylinder to avoid unnecessary explosion. 

    He assured the community that all necessary fire safety has been done and the investigation team would be sent to ascertain the root cause of the incident in order to avert future occurrence.

  • EU launches €30m initiative to empower artists, promote cultural cooperation in creative sector

    EU launches €30m initiative to empower artists, promote cultural cooperation in creative sector

    The European Union (EU) has launched the Africa–Europe Partnerships for Culture (AEPC) Nigeria Cluster to empower artists to expand their creative networks, and build stronger bridges between Africa and Europe.

    The €30 million EU-funded project, which is implemented by Goethe-Institut, will promote international collaboration opportunities for Nigerian artists, cultural organisations, and creative professionals across Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe, advancing mutual exchange and co-creation.

    The project is expected to facilitate the training of 250 professionals, support 450 artists, network 48 festivals, and deepen West Africa–EU cultural relations for lasting social and economic gains.

    Speaking during the official launch of the AEPC Nigeria Cluster in Lagos State, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot stated that culture remains central to sustainable development, social cohesion, and inclusive growth.

    “We see culture as a driver of mutual understanding, creative innovation, and economic opportunity,” he said.

    While emphasising that the launch of the initiative in Nigeria signals the EU’s strong support for culture between Africa and Europe, Mignot said: “Culture is part and parcel of our Global Gateway strategy, aiming at connecting people and creating opportunities and sustainable shared prosperity.

    “The EU remains committed to deepening partnerships that amplify African voices and foster cultural diversity. Our goal is to create spaces where voices can be heard, where creative talents can grow without limits and where stories that often remain unseen and forgotten can find itself in the global community.”

    Mignot highlighted a few EU-funded cultural programmes in Africa, saying this was a show of the EU’s commitment to promoting Africa-Europe cultural relations.

    He said: “In fact, AEPC is not the only proof of our commitment. Let me just mention two other EU-funded cultural programmes in Africa: Strengthening African-European Museum partnerships, a €20 million programme to support collaborative projects between African and European museums and Creative Africa, a €15 million upcoming project that will support collaboration between the two Audiovisual ecosystems.

    “We also support the strengthening of cultural policy, in Nigeria like in many other countries in the world. And then, there is a string of smaller support that we bring to cultural actors, like the Festival of Illustrators that took place here a couple of months ago or the Eastern Nigeria Film Festival in Enugu, where I will be next week with several of our Member States Ambassadors.”

    He also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigerian creatives in accessing new opportunities for collaboration, training, and global exposure.

    Mignot said: “Together, we can ensure that no creative is left behind, and that talent from West, East, South and North Nigeria can thrive on international stages. We just have to spread the voice and encourage as many organisations and creators to check if they are eligible, build or finalise strong projects and apply.”

    Also speaking, the Director of the Goethe-Institut Nigeria, Dr. Nadine Siegert explained that the launch of the AEPC Nigeria Cluster represents a landmark milestone in promoting cultural exchange, collaboration, and creative innovation between Africa and Europe. 

    “Nigeria’s creative sector is a force to be reckoned with, diverse, innovative, and increasingly recognised on the global stage. Through initiatives like the AEPC, we are not only showcasing Nigeria’s talent internationally but also creating pathways for collaboration, learning, and sustainable development within the cultural industry,” she said.

    Stating that Goethe-Institut, Germany’s cultural institute in Nigeria, is proud to support and invest in Nigeria’s creative ecosystem, she said: “Our commitment is rooted in three key pillars: collaboration, capacity building, and visibility and access. Goethe-Institut is committed to ensuring that opportunities in the cultural sector are accessible to all. By supporting creative hubs, digital platforms, and funding mechanisms, we aim to bridge gaps in resources and visibility, empowering a diverse range of artists and cultural professionals to thrive.

    In West Africa, the project promotes cultural cooperation between countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo and the EU.

  • Thugs attack fuji star Obesere, destroy equipment at Ondo burial ceremony

    Thugs attack fuji star Obesere, destroy equipment at Ondo burial ceremony

    Suspected thugs on Friday attacked renowned fuji music icon Abass Akande, popularly known as “Obesere,” during a burial ceremony in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The incident occurred at the Government Field, Okitipupa, where the musician and his band were billed to entertain guests at the burial. 

    A witness at the event, Bosede Akinyemi, who confirmed the incident on Saturday, told The Nation that the thugs stormed the venue unexpectedly and unleashed violence, causing guests to scamper for safety.

    “I was at the party yesterday (Friday). It was a very shameful act as the group of boys, who were known thugs in the community, caused trouble. They attacked Obesere and his band while they were entertaining guests,” she said.

    Akinyemi added that some members of the band were assaulted, and the hoodlums vandalised musical equipment worth millions. 

    “They pounced on some of Obesere’s boys and destroyed his equipment. You needed to see how I grabbed my shoes and ran. I heard one of the band members was stabbed while trying to repel the attack,” she added.

    Efforts to get the reaction of the music star proved abortive. 

    Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Okitipupa LGA, Hon. Andrew Ogunsakin described the attack as “unfortunate and unacceptable.”

    Hon. Ogunsakin condemned the act of hooliganism, insisting that such behaviour does not reflect the values of the Ikale people.

    “I received the news of the unfortunate mistreatment meted out to Abass Akande Obesere and his team with deep disappointment and utmost distaste. This incident is unacceptable and does not reflect the values we uphold as a people,” he said. 

    He said his administration will not tolerate actions that undermine the collective harmony and reputation of the community, assuring that measures would be taken to forestall a recurrence.

    “I want to assure the public that necessary steps will be taken to address this matter and prevent future occurrences, whether toward artists, celebrities, entertainers, or any individual visiting or residing in our local government.

    “I will be personally reaching out to Obesere and his team to convey our regrets. We are looking into the matter thoroughly to ensure such an incident does not repeat itself,” he added.

  • EPL: Chelsea ease past Burnley to go second in table

    EPL: Chelsea ease past Burnley to go second in table

    Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez delivered a comfortable 2-0 win at Burnley to lift Chelsea to second in the Premier League.

    The opener came when Neto met Jamie Gittens’ cross at the far post, while Fernandez sealed victory with a late run into the box after a counter-attack involving Neto and substitute Marc Guiu.

    The Blues rarely moved out of second gear during the 90 minutes and were able to rest unused substitute Moises Caicedo, with matches against Barcelona and Arsenal to come.

    However, resting players looked a gamble early on as Burnley started brightly, with Jaidon Anthony having two early shots blocked and Loum Tchaouna forcing a save from Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with a strike from the edge of the box.

    Chelsea started slowly and had only tested Burnley keeper Martin Dubvravka with a tame long-range effort from Trevoh Chalobah.

    But after Neto’s header put them ahead they took control, withdrawing captain Reece James at half-time yet growing increasingly dominant.

    Neto struck a post soon after the interval, while substitute Malo Gusto saw a shot saved amid further attempts from Joao Pedro, Gittens, Fernandez and Marc Cucurella.

    Chelsea’s second-half display was largely about game management as they gave little away and dominated possession, finishing with about 60%.

    In-form striker Zian Flemming fired Burnley’s only second-half chance over, 30 minutes after his side’s previous effort, and substitutes Lyle Foster and Armando Broja could not inspire a comeback.

    After Chelsea made several changes of their own, young striker Guiu provided Fernandez with a cutback to turn home the second goal.

    Burnley remain 17th in the table and could drop into the relegation zone later on Saturday, with Nottingham Forest and West Ham still to play.

    Chelsea climbed to second, having played a game more than their rivals.