The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Mactee returns with new ‘Dundee Dance’ wave

    Mactee returns with new ‘Dundee Dance’ wave

    Nigerian born U.S-based artist Mac-Anthony Abirika is back with a fresh burst of energy as he prepares to release his new single “Dundee Dance” on November 21. 

    The song introduces a vibrant new sound and a lively dance that reflects his story of persistence, growth, and creative rebirth.

    Mac-Anthony’s love for music started early in Lagos, where classic records on his father’s turntable shaped his passion. As a teenager, he formed a three man band and played a major role in crafting the group’s sound. 

    They had a few years together before splitting, he took the bold step of going solo, which led to record deals, international tours, and moments where it felt like success was right in reach.

    Then came the setbacks. Slow moving contracts, fading momentum, and long quiet stretches that tested his belief in himself and the goal.

    “It was a dark time,” he recalls. “I could see the light from a mile away, but instead of basking in it, everything around me went dim. I couldn’t picture myself working a 9-to-5, all I wanted was to sing, to be a legend, to build something that gives hope to people who need a hand, no matter who they are.”

    His turning point came in 2020 during the pandemic with the release of “Manna,” a soulful anthem that went viral and reignited his journey. More singles followed, including “Body,” his first nationwide music video, and the. EP “Pit to Palace,” an eight track project built on pain, faith, and survival. The hit “Golgotha,” featuring Magnito, added another defining moment to his catalog.

    Now he steps into an another realm with “Dundee Dance.” A sound on a different wave level, upbeat, and packed with positive energy, introducing a fresh dance that celebrates movement and freedom.

    “I have learned that if you keep knocking, the door will open one day,” he says.

    Beyond music, Mactee is the co founder of Mark and Briks LLC, a fast growing company involved in fashion, real estate, and talent development. His goal is to inspire and create opportunities for others through every platform he builds.

    With “Dundee Dance” and more releases already lined up, Mactee stands as proof that faith and determination can turn any pit into a palace.

  • Accra hosts Pan-American liberation conference

    Accra hosts Pan-American liberation conference

    The conference of Progressive Pan-African forces has brought together hundreds of leaders, activists and scholars to deliberate on a unified agenda for reparations, economic sovereignty, and the complete liberation of the African continent.

    The two-day gathering with theme “From Historical Memory to Economic and Political Justice,” marks the 80th anniversary of the historic Fifth Pan-African Congress held in Manchester in 1945.

    The conference is focused on developing concrete strategies for reparations and full compensation for centuries of colonial exploitation.

    Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, recognised within the African Union as a leading voice on reparations formally declared the event open.

    The high-profile gathering attracted prominent political, diplomatic and civil society leaders, including former Ghanaian President John Kofi Agyekum Kufuor; Congolese opposition figure Martin Fayulu; Irvin Jim, General Secretary of South Africa’s largest trade union, NUMSA; and Zambia’s Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe. Also in attendance was the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Ghana, Rolf Olson, signalling international attention to the deliberations.

    Discussions centered on reparations for historical plunder, economic sovereignty, combating neocolonialism, and the repatriation of stolen cultural artefacts. A special exhibition showcasing looted African treasures ran alongside the conference. Delegates also explored the creation of a continental mechanism to safeguard African sovereignty.

    At the end of the event, participants adopted the Accra Declaration a unified programme of action aimed at translating Kwame Nkrumah’s famous declaration that “Ghana’s independence is meaningless unless it is linked with the total liberation of Africa” into concrete steps.

    With this gathering, Accra reasserts itself as a symbolic centre of Pan-Africanism, as leaders emphasize that Africa is no longer making appeals but actively taking charge of its own future.

  • Diaspora Nigerians excited over excellence awards in USA

    Diaspora Nigerians excited over excellence awards in USA

    Nigerians and other Africans in the Diaspora have expressed excitement after receiving honours at this year’s Global African Diaspora Awards (GADA), held during the second edition of the prestigious awards gala.

    The event took place on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Golden Tree Banquet in Houston, Texas, USA.

    In a statement made available to journalists in Nigeria, Obi-West Utchaychukwu, Producer and CEO of the Global African Diaspora Awards (GADA) and Publisher of Diaspora Glitz Magazine, said many Nigerians were among the honorees celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the excellence and advancement of the African diaspora.

    He disclosed that the ceremony brought together “an impressive array of influential figures from various industries, including top executives in oil and gas, leaders in technology and healthcare, esteemed legal professionals, prominent business executives, and renowned entertainment leaders.”

    The glamorous gala, attended by over 400 guests from around the world, also featured community advocates, social influencers, and music talents. Notable guests included Miss Chinelo Aniekwu, Miss Grande Georgia USA 2025; Miss Josephine Nwaogu, Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA 2025; and Michael Illesanmi of 90 Day Fiancé. The event was compered by ace Nigerian comedian MC Elenu and Norway-based Cameroonian MC Charlene, popularly known as the “Energy Goddess,” with Gifty David anchoring the red carpet.

    Among the Nigerians honoured were Joseph Oche Udeh (Bigsmart), who won MC/Hypeman of the Year; USA-based artist David Cross Idukomose (Kwate), honoured as Entertainer of the Year; and DJ Prince, who clinched the Best African DJ (Global) award. Others included Engr. Stella Ifeoma Okengwu, CEO of Winhomes Global Services (Dynamic CEO of the Year); Jumai Ghaji, CEO of Suya on the Spot (Entrepreneur of the Year); Dr. Kennedy Nnadi, CEO of Pennek Heights in Katy, Texas (Developer of the Year); and Bolaji Ajimotokan, the first African in Texas to establish a federal credit union (Global Business Ingenuity Award).

    One of the highlights of the evening was a captivating fashion show by BCD Fashion House in collaboration with Dexterity Talents Inc. The showcase featured an exquisite evening wear collection by Hawah Kromah, CEO and designer of BCD Fashion House Inc. Each piece, crafted with luxurious fabrics, intricate detailing, and impeccable tailoring, underscored her reputation for sophistication and red-carpet elegance.

    According to the statement, the awards are more than a celebration of personal achievements; they serve as “a platform to amplify the collective voice of Africans across the globe.” It added that profiling the journeys of outstanding professionals helps challenge stereotypes, promote diversity, and foster a more inclusive global society.

    The founder and CEO of GADA, Obi-West Utchaychukwu, also known as the Obi of Houston, announced that the 3rd edition of the Awards will again hold in Houston in 2026, ahead of the Paris, France edition slated for 2027. He said the awards will continue to rotate across major cities worldwide.

  • TDA founder named African fashion entrepreneur of the year

    TDA founder named African fashion entrepreneur of the year

    Founder of TDA Couture, Dare Aliu, has been named Fashion Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 at the African Fashion Designer’s Award, one of the continent’s leading platforms celebrating excellence in fashion.

    The award, organisers said, recognises Aliu’s rising influence in the industry, his commitment to promoting African couture, and his ability to merge creativity with strong business leadership.

    Since establishing TDA Couture, Aliu has carved a niche for himself as a designer committed to reimagining African fashion for global audiences.

    His pieces, known for their craftsmanship, originality and cultural depth, have featured on international runways and red carpets, strengthening the brand’s presence across markets.

    Describing the award as a major milestone, Aliu said the recognition reflects years of creativity, resilience and steady brand growth.

    He thanked the artisans, collaborators, clients and supporters who have contributed to the TDA Couture journey, adding that the honour reinforces his drive to push African fashion further into the global luxury space.

    Under his leadership, TDA Couture has expanded its reach through international showcases, bespoke collaborations and a growing portfolio of clients. Beyond design, he continues to mentor emerging creatives, promote local talent and advocate sustainable practices within the fashion ecosystem.

    The African Fashion Designer’s Award, regarded as one of the industry’s most respected honours, celebrates individuals shaping the future of fashion on the continent. Aliu’s emergence as Fashion Entrepreneur of the Year underscores his growing role in driving innovation, cultural pride and economic value within the creative sector.

    TDA Couture, known for blending African heritage with contemporary elegance, says it remains committed to telling authentic African stories through design as it strengthens its global footprint.

  • IBEDC: National Assembly intensifies Bill to curb energy theft

    IBEDC: National Assembly intensifies Bill to curb energy theft

    The National Assembly House Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation has reaffirmed commitment towards strengthening legislative measures, aimed at curbing increasing menace of energy theft across Nigeria’s power sector.

    The Committee said National Assembly is currently intensifying efforts on a bill to combat energy theft through stricter penalties, enhanced enforcement, and improved protection of electricity assets.

    Speaking during an oversight visit to Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc (IBEDC), the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Hamisu Ibrahim, lamented that energy theft has become a major obstacle to efficient electricity distribution in Nigeria. 

    He said  “We are working on a robust legal framework that will decisively address this menace and safeguard infrastructure investments.”

    He pledged the Committee’s support in helping electricity distribution companies (DisCos) recover huge outstanding debts owed by federal and state ministries, departments, agencies, and local governments. 

    According to him, the Committee is ready to collaborate with the DisCos to ensure that the debts are duly settled to strengthen liquidity across the power sector.

    “I want to assure the DisCos that this Committee is going to stand firm to ensure these debts are recovered.”

    IBEDC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Francis Agoha, called for the National Assembly’s intervention on the twin challenges of energy theft and outstanding debts by federal and state institutions. 

    He emphasised that the issues have significantly constrained liquidity across the market, affecting IBEDC’s capacity to further expand and fortify its distribution infrastructure.

    Agoha briefed the Committee on IBEDC’s investments and infrastructure improvements since the 2013 privatisation, highlighting progress made in network expansion, metering, safety, and customer service delivery.

    He also outlined the company’s strategic plans for future growth, while noting the challenges faced.

    He said, “We have significantly expanded and rehabilitated our distribution network, but the challenges of energy theft, vandalism, and outstanding government debts continue to undermine our service delivery. We appreciate the National Assembly’s willingness to intervene.”

    The Committee inspected critical distribution infrastructure of IBEDC. 

    The visit formed part of the legislature’s mandate to assess the power sector performance, identify operational challenges, and compliance with regulatory standards since privatisation.

  • Enforcement on ground rent payment, land use conversion fee, others begin next week – FCTA

    Enforcement on ground rent payment, land use conversion fee, others begin next week – FCTA

    The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will from next Wednesday, November 26, 2025, commence enforcement actions on defaulters of Ground Rent payment and Land Use Change/Conversion fee as well as Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) bills. 

    The FCT Minister’s Senior Special Assistant (SSA), on Public Communications and Social Media,  Lere Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. 

    On May 26, 2025, following the intervention of  President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, granted defaulters on ground rent 14 days grace to pay up their outstanding ground rent, with associated penalties. 

    Olayinka said: “Also, publications were made on Monday 8th September 2025, Tuesday 9th September 2025, and Wednesday 10th September 2025, in some national dailies and online platforms, on the reviewed Land Use/Purpose Clause of properties in the FCT, giving 30 days for the payment of penalty/violation fee of ₦5 million and other applicable fees for Land Use Change/Conversion.

    “Another public notice was published in national newspapers as well as online platforms, and aired on television and radio stations, granting defaulters of the land use/purpose clause of properties in Asokoro, Maitama, Garki and Wuse districts in the Federal Capital City (FCC), a final grace period of 14 days to comply with the terms and conditions of the approval for land use change and conversion.

    “The 14 days grace on payment of Ground Rent expired on June 9, 2025, more than five months ago, while the 14 days extension on the land use/purpose clause will end on Monday, November 24, 2025.

    “Consequently, the FCTA will from Wednesday,  November 26, 2025, commence enforcement actions on defaulters of Ground Rent payment and Land Use Change/Conversion fee as well as Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) bills”.

    The enforcement, he said, will also include all those who purchased properties from other people, but are yet to register their interests by obtaining the mandatory Minister’s Consent and registering their Deeds of Assignment. 

  • Igweshi urges AU to fast-track ratification of youth, free movement protocols

    Igweshi urges AU to fast-track ratification of youth, free movement protocols

    In a strategic push to deepen youth participation and strengthen continental integration, Augustine Igweshi, Executive Director of the Center for Peace Advocacy and Sustainable Development (CEPASD), DG of the African Transformer Institute (ATI) and Convener of the Youth Model African Union (YMAU) Summit, has urged the African Union (AU) to accelerate the ratification of key youth-focused and mobility frameworks across Member States.

    Igweshi made the call during a high-level meeting with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), where he also presented the African Transformer Magazine, a publication showcasing young Africans driving leadership, innovation, and development across the continent.

    He highlighted three priority areas requiring immediate political action: ratification and implementation of the African Youth Charter; ratification of the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons in Africa; and domestication of the AU Continental Framework on Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS).

    According to him, despite the AU’s strong policy commitments to youth empowerment, slow implementation at the Member State level continues to limit young people’s inclusion, mobility, and socio-economic opportunities.

    “Africa cannot achieve the Africa We Want while young people remain on the margins of decision-making,” Igweshi told the Chairperson. “Ratifying the African Youth Charter and the Free Movement Protocol will unlock opportunities for millions of young Africans and strengthen continental unity, economic integration, and peacebuilding efforts.”

    He noted that the Free Movement Protocol is essential to building a borderless and interconnected Africa, enabling young innovators, entrepreneurs, and peacebuilders to collaborate across borders. 

    He described free movement as “a catalyst for cultural exchange, trade, knowledge transfer, and Pan-African solidarity.”

    On the Youth, Peace and Security Framework, Igweshi called for domestication and operationalization of national action plans, stressing that young people already play a central role in preventing violence, mediating disputes, countering hate speech, and promoting peace education.

    “Young people are not just beneficiaries of peace — they are creators of it,” he added. “With the right legal and policy environment, Africa’s youth can build resilient, peaceful, and prosperous communities.”

    Responding, the AU Chairperson reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to pushing for the ratification of the Youth Charter and the Free Movement Protocol. 

    He commended Igweshi for his dedication to youth empowerment and for providing a strong continental platform through the YMAU Summit, describing it as “a powerful platform for preparing the next generation of African diplomats, policymakers, and transformative leaders.”

    The meeting also discussed deeper collaboration between CEPASD, ATI, and the AU on youth leadership development, peacebuilding, and continental integration initiatives.

    Igweshi reiterated his commitment to advancing the AU’s Agenda 2063 and strengthening youth inclusion in governance, assuring the Chairperson that African youth are ready to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development.

    “We are not waiting for the future — we are building it,” he said. “And we need an Africa that gives its young people the freedom, voice, and tools to lead.”

    The engagement is part of Igweshi’s broader advocacy to ensure that African youths are recognized and empowered as key partners in governance, diplomacy, and development processes across the continent.

  • Sanwo-Olu set to inaugurate 233 housing units

    Sanwo-Olu set to inaugurate 233 housing units

    Lagos State Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu is set to inaugurate 233 new housing units on  Abraham Adesanya Housing Estate, Ajah on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

    The state Commissioner for Housing, Mr Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, gave the assurance in a statement on Thursday.

    The statement was signed by the Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Mr Ganiu Lawal.

    The commissioner said that the housing units, to be inaugurated on Friday, would be expected to boost  housing stock for the growing number of Lagos residents seeking decent accommodation.

    According to the official, the project consists of 34 blocks containing a total of 233 housing units.

    He noted that the estate was a joint venture between Lagos State Government and Urban Shelter Ltd., a private real estate company.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu, Abiru,others  salute Oshodi’s re-election as ITTF Vice President

    Akinderu-Fatai said that the ministry remained committed to providing affordable and quality homes in line with  Sanwo-Olu’s promise to complete all ongoing housing projects across the state.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project sits on 3.7 hectares of land within the fully-developed Abraham Adesanya Housing Estate on the Lekki–Epe Expressway.

    The Abraham Adesanya Housing Estate was inaugurated on Jan. 15, 2001, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State.

    Sanwo-Olu had, in October 2025, inaugurated 420 housing units on the Akinsanya Sunny Ajose Housing Estate at Ajara.

    (NAN)

  • Southern Islamic scholars dismiss claims of Christian genocide in Nigeria

    Southern Islamic scholars dismiss claims of Christian genocide in Nigeria

    Prominent Islamic clerics and scholars have refuted claims of an alleged genocide against Christians in Nigeria, insisting that such narratives are misleading and capable of fuelling division.

    The position was made known on Wednesday at the one-day Special Southern Ulammah Summit organised by the Congregation of Southern Nigerian Ulammah in Ibadan. 

    The summit, themed Confronting the Economic and Security Challenges Facing Islamic Ummah in Southern Nigeria, drew notable Islamic clerics, scholars and leaders from across the South and beyond.

    Among the distinguished personalities in attendance were former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Dimeji Bankole; Asiwaju Musulumi of Oyo State, Alhaji Mutiu Oladejo; former Dean, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, Professor Afis Oladosu; Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Dr Ridwan Jamiu; Professor Abideen Olaiya; and National Ameer of the Federation of Ahlus-Sunnah Organisations of Nigeria (FASON), Shaykh Tajudeen Abdul Kareem.

    Others included Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi; Chairman, Muslim Community in Oyo State, Alhaji Kunle Sanni; Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Professor Ibrahim Usman; Dr Nurudeen Asunogie; and the Chief Host, Sheikh Isa Akindele Salaudeen. 

    Other scholars such as Professor Ibrahim Oreagba, Dr Ismail Yunus, Dr Bilal Asrau, Professor Iyasu Usman of the National Mosque Abuja, Sheik Abdulfattah Thanni, Dr Bashir Aliyu Umar, Sheik Haroon Ajah, Sheik Imran Eleha and Dr Lukman Fasasi were also present.

    Speakers at the summit emphasised that claims of Christian genocide in Nigeria are unfounded, adding that Muslims have equally suffered casualties in various attacks. 

    They stressed that terrorism has no foundation in Islam and urged Nigerians not to succumb to divisive external influences.

    In his welcome address, Chief Host Sheikh Isa Akindele Salaudeen said the Muslim Ummah in Southern Nigeria faces significant economic and security challenges. 

    He noted that the summit was convened to provide a platform for sharing ideas and proffering solutions to issues confronting communities across the region.

    He said, “This gathering of like-minded individuals is timely and urgent. Islam teaches us to confront the difficulties of our society with courage, wisdom and collective resolve. Our communities feel the weight of rising insecurity, economic hardship, and limited access to essential services, yet Allah does not burden a people beyond what they can bear.”

    He added that the summit aims to foster honest dialogue, stronger collaboration among communities, and renewed commitment to addressing shared challenges.

    Read Also: Alleged Christian genocide: U.S. statements emboldened violent groups in Nigeria, Fed Govt warns

    Speaking on insecurity, Professor Afis Oladosu traced the rise of insurgency in Nigeria to around 2009, stressing that terrorists do not discriminate based on religion. 

    He urged Islamic clerics to guard against manipulation for selfish interests and to prioritise unity.

    Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, in his remarks, accused the United States and its President Donald Trump of using divisive rhetoric to pursue economic interests in Nigeria. 

    He warned that foreign powers may attempt to exploit Nigeria’s natural resources, especially in mineral-rich states such as Zamfara, through tactics that promote internal division.

    Gumi urged Nigerians to resist external interference, saying, “We Muslims and Christians are living peacefully in this country. How can we allow a foreigner to divide us? It is because of our resources. We should not allow them to divide us.”

    Professor Ibrahim Oreagba described Nigeria as “a land of many opportunities” and encouraged Muslims to unite and explore emerging prospects, including the Halal economy and Islamic finance.

    Hon. Dimeji Bankole, addressing participants, reaffirmed that Nigeria’s unity remains non-negotiable. 

    He pledged support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace and national cohesion, saying, “I am in total support of whatever the deliberation of this conference is, so long as it is for the progress of Nigeria. Nigeria first.”

  • Zuldal Microfinance Bank unlicensed, says CBN

    Zuldal Microfinance Bank unlicensed, says CBN

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has warned against doing business with an entity known as Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited.

    The apex bank declared the organisation is not licensed to operate as a microfinance bank in the country.

    In a statement in Abuja, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, said the apex bank became aware of reports that the entity, which allegedly operates branches in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna and Kano, had been claiming to hold a CBN-issued licence to engage in microfinance banking.

    She said the claim was false, stressing that “Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited is not a licensed microfinance bank and has no authorisation from the Central Bank of Nigeria to operate or carry out any form of banking or microfinance business in Nigeria.”

    Mrs. Sidi Ali referred to the provisions of Section 2(1) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020, which clearly states that “no person shall carry on any banking business in Nigeria except it is a company duly incorporated in Nigeria and holds a valid banking licence issued by the CBN.”

    The CBN urged members of the public to disregard any claims of approval or licensing attributed to Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited and cautioned Nigerians against engaging in financial transactions with the firm.

    Read Also: Thanks CBN, EFCC; Corruption kills Nigeria

    It said: “The general public is therefore strongly advised to disregard any claims of licensing or approval by Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited and to refrain from engaging in any financial transactions with the said entity, as such dealings are undertaken at the individual’s own risk.”

    The apex bank stated that it remains committed to protecting the integrity of the financial system and safeguarding Nigerians from the activities of unregulated and fraudulent operators.

    It added that a full list of all licensed financial institutions in the country can be verified on the CBN’s official website.