The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Only Soma gets my love language – Angel

    Only Soma gets my love language – Angel

    Reality TV star Angel Smith has confessed to having a soft spot for Soma; stating he’s the only guy that has managed to decipher her love language, which is the act of service.

    Chatting with Biggie during her diary session, Angel opened up on her reason for pardoning Soma instead of Mercy who’s been her friend outside the House.

    She said considering the fact that Mercy also has another friend besides her in the House, she had to weigh the chances of her being picked over the other person.

    The poet said: “Why did I pardon him? I think he’s really sweet. It was either going to be him or Mercy and I was just thinking hmmm….Would Mercy pick me? Because I was close to Mercy outside obviously. But then, she’s also close to Venita. So I was weighing the options, pondering if I didn’t have immunity, would she have picked me or Venita, that’s how I reasoned it.

    Highlighting another reason that prompted her to pick Soma, Angel continued: “But then, generally, I think Soma is a sweet guy. He’s a sweet person and I think he actually deserved to be here one more extra week because we don’t know tomorrow.

    Read Also: I will switch up, Housemates keep underestimating me – BBNaija’s Soma

    “Based on his previous experience, how he went after two weeks. And you know, it’s nice that now, that has changed and he’s made it into the third week in your house.

    Speaking further, she added: “Aside that, I think he’s sweet. He’s always willing to like do stuff for you.

    ”My love language is act of service so, I was a bit biased. Because if I need anything…He’s always saying do you need anything? So…mind you, that’s the type of person I like.

    “If he had a competitor now, maybe I’d have picked his competitor. Who knows? But he’s the only one that gets my love language, so I decided to pick him as my friend.”

  • Man City agree £77m fee for Leipzig defender Gvardiol

    Man City agree £77m fee for Leipzig defender Gvardiol

    Manchester City have agreed a 90m euro fee (£77m) with RB Leipzig for Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol.

    The deal for the 21-year-old does not include add-ons, meaning the £80m Manchester United paid Leicester City for Harry Maguire in 2019 remains the British record for a defender.

    He has been a key player for Leipzig in the 87 games he played for them since signing from Dynamo Zagreb in 2021.

    It is expected Gvardiol will fly to England for a medical later this week

    The deal looked unlikely to be agreed last week when Leipzig insisted they would not sell for less than €100m (£86m).

    Manager Pep Guardiola believes Gvardiol will strengthen the left side of his central defence and, with Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake also able to fill that position, his arrival may put the future of Aymeric Laporte at Etihad Stadium under the microscope.

    Gvardiol, who is also able to play left-back, becomes City’s second major signing of the summer following the arrival of fellow Croatian Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea in June for an initial £25m.

    Kovacic will effectively replace Ilkay Gundogan in City’s midfield after last season’s captain joined Barcelona on a free transfer, while winger Riyad Mahrez moved to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli last week in a £30m deal.

    Read Also: Leipzig want at least 100m euros for Gvardiol

    Gvardiol, who has scored twice in his 21 caps for Croatia, helped his country finish third at the 2022 World Cup as well as runners-up to Spain in this year’s Nations League.

    He won back-to-back titles with Zagreb, signing off with a league and cup double before making his move to the Bundesliga.

    Leipzig also twice qualified for the Champions League during Gvardiol’s time in Germany as a result of their fourth and third-placed finishes in the Bundesliga.

    The club that has sold him were effectively knocked out of the Champions League twice in the past two seasons by the club he has now joined.

    Leipzig finished third in a group topped by City in 2021-22 and lost 8-1 over two legs in the round of 16 last season, including a 7-0 defeat at the Etihad.

  • Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq: The frugal maestro revolutionising politics

    Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq: The frugal maestro revolutionising politics

    • By, Barrister Jimoh Lawal

    In a world of grandiose egos and inflated egos, Governor Abdulrazaq stands tall as a beacon of simplicity and sincerity. He proves that one can lead without the need for opulence, that one can serve without the need for extravagance.

    The people of Kwara State and the entire nation have been graced with a leader who values substance over showmanship, who cherishes the welfare of the people over personal gain. He’s the Chairman of Nigeria Governor’s Forum who leads by example, showing us that greatness lies not in grandeur but in the genuine commitment to making a difference.

    So, as the tale of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq continues, the people of Kwara State and the Nigeria Governors Forum find themselves blessed with a leader who reminds us all that true greatness lies in the simplicity of service and the power of humility. May his reign as Chairman and Governor be a testament to the enduring strength of simplicity in leadership. 

    In the realm of politics, where opulence and lavishness often take center stage, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State stands out as a beacon of frugality and fiscal responsibility. Unlike many of his counterparts who ruled the State in the past who choose to reside in extravagant government-owned mansions, Governor Abdulrazaq has opted to stay in his private home, setting an example of simplicity and prudence in the face of excess.

    His decision to remain in his personal residence is not merely a matter of personal preference but a calculated move to save the state’s resources. While others might indulge in the grandeur of official residences, Governor Abdulrazaq understands that such luxury comes at a significant cost to the taxpayers. By choosing to reside in his private home, he demonstrates his commitment to using public funds wisely and responsibly.

    Furthermore, the governor’s emphasis on renovating existing state facilities for his comfort rather than building new ones is a testament to his practical approach to governance. Instead of indulging in unnecessary extravagance, he prioritizes the refurbishment and optimization of existing resources, ensuring that the state’s funds are utilized efficiently.

    Governor Abdulrazaq’s frugality is not limited to his personal accommodations, even in his movements across the length and breadth of the state with the Toyota Hilux pick up car that he personally bought and uses as his official vehicle with two other  old cars inherited from the pool of former regime as security vehicle. His entourage is just 3 vehicles and no more. He extends this ethos to various aspects of the state’s administration, carefully scrutinizing expenses to avoid wasteful spending. His prudence in financial matters has earned him commendations from citizens and observers alike far and beyond who see in him a leader who is committed to the welfare of the state and its People and therefore render services without drowning Salaries from the treasury but instead that such emoluments should be plugged back for the development of the State.

    While some may perceive frugality as a sign of austerity or lack of ambition, Governor Abdulrazaq proves otherwise. He demonstrates that a leader can be both financially responsible and visionary. His focus on optimizing resources and reducing unnecessary expenses allows him to allocate funds to essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

    Read Also: Subsidy removal: AbdulRazaq okays N10,000 for Kwara students

    As Governor Abdulrazaq continues to serve with his frugal approach to governance, the people of Kwara State witness firsthand the positive impact of responsible financial management. His commitment to fiscal discipline paves the way for a more transparent and accountable government, where the interests of the people take precedence over lavish indulgences.

    In an era where ostentatious displays of wealth and power often dominate the political landscape, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s modest and prudent approach stands as a refreshing departure. His frugality sets a precedent for other leaders to follow, inspiring a culture of responsible spending and efficient resource management. He is the first Governor in the country to abrogate the states pension laws enacted by their predecessors that enmark huge sums of money and other emonulments for ex governor and deputy governor in the state after leaving office.

    So, let the commendations continue for Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, a leader who prioritizes the people’s welfare over personal comforts, a governor who exemplifies that true greatness lies not in excess but in the prudent stewardship of public resources. With his frugal leadership, Kwara state embarks on a path of progress and prosperity, guided by the wisdom of a leader who truly understands the value of financial prudence in the pursuit of a better tomorrow.

    Jimoh Lawal is Legal Adviser, Kwara APC

  • Princess faking American accent, says Uriel

    Princess faking American accent, says Uriel

    BBNaija All Stars housemate Uriel Oputa has accused her fellow housemate, Princess, of faking her foreign accent. 

    She revealed this during her diary session with Biggie on Wednesday. 

    Uriel claimed she knew who Princess was prior to the show, so the latter is faking her accent

    Read Also: Being a second wife has benefits – Uriel

    She wondered aloud where her fellow colleague got the accent from as she found it difficult to comprehend what she said. 

  • Samoura hails Waldrum’s Falcons after round of 16 ticket

    Samoura hails Waldrum’s Falcons after round of 16 ticket

    FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura has heaped praises on the Super Falcons of Nigeria following their goalless draw against Ireland.

    The team finished second in their Group B with five points behind co-hosts Australia and will face the winner of Group D in the first knockout stage of the tournament.

    Randy Waldrum’s side remain unbeaten after  three games with a win and two draws. They started their campaign with goalless draw against Canada, followed by a win over Australia before they played their second goalless draw of the tournament against Ireland in Brisbane on Monday.

    Read Also: FWWC: Falcons ‘ll be tough nut to crack, admits James

    The Super Falcons have reached the knockout stages of the World Cup for third time in their history of the showpiece. This historic feat impressed the Secretary General of FIFA, Ramat Samoura, who couldn’t contained her excitement for the Falcons after their match against the Girls in Green.

    For today you have done well, pls don’t hesitate to get some rest and after call your families. And let’s meet in a couple of days, She said.

    Randy Waldrum’s Falcons will have the chance to emulate the heroics of their 1999 counterparts that reached the last-eight of the World Cup against any of England, Denmark or China in the round of 16.

  • Workers’ protest paralyses Ekiti

    Workers’ protest paralyses Ekiti

    The strike  by the Ekiti chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) on Thursday paralysed activities in all public institutions in the State.

    This is in compliance with the nationwide protest by the NLC over the FG’s removal of fuel subsidy.

    The Nation, who visited the Secretariat and other public offices, observed that most workers shunned duty post for work and few who reported for work were seen sitting idly.

    Most public institutions apart from the government house were under locks and keys.

    Some of the offices affected were the Ministry of  Justice, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Art and Culture, Ministry of Education among others.

    The workers took to the streets to express their displeasure over the increase in the price of petrol and the harsh taste of the occassioned by subsidy removal.

    The peaceful protest march began at the Labour House located at Egbewa Area of Ado-Ekiti  and terminated at the State Government House, where the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habitat Adubiaro received the protesters.

    Read Also: Protest: NASS pledges to address Labour demands in 7days

    The protesters displayed placards with various inscription such:“ ‘Reduce cost of governance now! Save masses from poverty and hunger, ‘Stop importation of fuel, revive our refineries.’ ‘Nigerians are suffering, ‘All these maladies must stop! among others.

    Briefing the SSG and Head of Service, Mr Bamidele Agbede, the  NLC Chairman, Comrade Kolapo Olatunde called for the immediate reversal of all  anti-masses policies.

    Olatunde  demanded that the  Federal government revert the current fuel l price to its old price, fix the local refineries and release eight months of withheld salary of University workers among others.

    Head of Service, Bamidele Olugbenga Agbede, assured that Governor Biodun Oyebamji would deliver their demands to President Bola Tinubu.

  • JUST IN: I will seek merger of EFCC, ICPC, other anti-graft agencies – Fagbemi

    JUST IN: I will seek merger of EFCC, ICPC, other anti-graft agencies – Fagbemi

    One of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s  ministerial nominees, Lateef Fagbemi SAN has announced his intention to seek the merger of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related matters Commission (ICPC) and other anti-graft agencies if made Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice. 

    Fagbemi said this during his screening by the  Senate in Abuja on Wednesday.

    He explained that such would strengthen the agencies as both will still carry out its mandate as stipulated in the Acts that established them.

    Read Also: EFCC decries trial delays

    He also stated that as the AGF, the role of investigation and prosecution by a single agency would be discouraged as that limits the process of justice.

    Details Shortly…

  • Colwill signs long term Chelsea deal

    Colwill signs long term Chelsea deal

    Defender Levi Colwill has signed a new six-year deal with Chelsea, with an option for a further year.

    The England Under-21 international helped Brighton qualify for the Europa League last season, making 17 Premier League appearances while on loan at the club.

    The 20-year-old posted a goodbye message to Seagulls fans on Instagram on Tuesday.

    “It’s always been an easy decision,” said Colwill.

    Read Also: Chelsea’s Fofana out for months after ACL surgery

    “‘As I’ve grown up, all I’ve known is Chelsea. I’ve spoken with the manager [Mauricio Pochettino] and he’s given me reassurance, that trust I needed.

    “He’s spoken with me not just as a player but a person. It’s made a big difference.”

  • There’s nothing more important than family – Yomi Casual

    There’s nothing more important than family – Yomi Casual

    Celebrity tailor Omoniyi Makun better known as Yomi Casual has emphasised the importance of family. 

    He argued nothing was as crucial as a family, chiding individuals that reasoned there could be anything more than the stated unit.

    To enjoy one’s labour, the popular fashion designer admonished parents and husbands to take care of their children and wives respectively.

    Read Also: Yomi Casual curses those accusing him of being gay

    He maintained those who intentionally don’t would have themselves to blame because of the ‘shege’ (suffering) awaiting them in the future.

    He wrote: “Be there thinking there’s anything more important than family! 

    “There’s actually nothing because you start with family and end with family. Read that again!

    “Parents take care of your kids! Husbands take good care of your wife! You will reap it when you come of age.

    “You shall enjoy the fruit of your labour or the shege you deliberately made your partner or kids go pass through. #tailor.”

  • Protest: NASS pledges to address Labour demands in 7days

    Protest: NASS pledges to address Labour demands in 7days

    The National Assembly (NASS) has pledged to review and address the organised Labour demands within the next one week.

    The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio said this when organised labour took its mass protest to the National Assembly Complex where it submitted a list of its demands on Wednesday in Abuja.

    The mass protest was organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress(TUC) over anti-poor and workers policies of the Federal Government.

    The protesters carried placards with inscription such; “We condemn increase in school fees, “Stop importation of Petrol, Revive the Refineries,”  ”Increase in price of fuel responsible for inflation, poverty among others.

    Akpabio who was represented by, Ali Ndume, Chief Whip of the Senate assured the protesting workers that NASS was in support of their struggle.

    “We have keenly followed what is going on when we realized that there was a breakdown in the discussions between the Presidency and the NLC. I want to assure you that we will find a permanent solution to this.

    “Please give us one week and we will make progress and if you are not satisfied with the progress we are making, then you can take further action,”he said.

    He also said that a committee had been setup to look the demands of organised labour.

    He added that by close of the day or  tomorrow, they will call the first meeting with labour  to start the discussions and the engagements would continue.

    “We will do our best as your representatives to come out with solutions acceptable to you and realistic enough,”he said.

    Ndume also assured that the letter which contained their demands and terms of reference would be handed over to the leadership of the senate.

    Earlier, NLC President, Mr Joe Ajaero said the nationwide mass protest was to expressed workers’ frustrations and  grievances of the anti-poor policies that had brought hardship on Nigerians.

    He added, ”for almost two months now, we have been engaged in discussions without  fruitful motion. We got frustrated.”

    He however, said that the demands of the labour include the immediate implementation of the resolutions jointly signed  with organised Labour and  government.

    Ajaero also called for the immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies of government including the recent hike in PMS price,  school fees and VAT.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Protesters pull down NASS gate, take over premises

    He also urged the Federal Government to fix the countrys’ local refineries in Porthacourt, Warri and Kaduna.

    According to him, release the eight months withheld salaries of the university lectures and workers.

    “Accord appropriate recognition and support to the Presidential Steering Committee and the work of its Subcommittees.

    “Also put a stop to in human actions and policies of government,” he added.

    Also speaking, Mr Festus Osifo, TUC President  called for the reduction in the cost of governance.

    Osifo said that the governments was “insensitive to the plight of the masses.”

    “The Nigerian masses have been battered. They have gone through excruciating pains but in all of this, we have not heard what the President has to say about the cost of governance.

    “We want you in the National Assembly to show sacrifice. We want you to cut down your budget.

    “We want you to buy Nigerian made cars and  not imported vehicles because you are creating jobs over there and importing poverty here.

    “We want you to show leadership because we elected you to work for us,” he said.

    (NAN)