The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Actress Sarah Martins hospitalised after health scare

    Actress Sarah Martins hospitalised after health scare

    Actress Sarah Martins has been hospitalised following a severe health scare, revealing she woke up feeling lifeless and unable to feel parts of her body.

    In an Instagram post, Martins said she slumped after struggling to work, attributing her condition to extreme exhaustion from overworking herself throughout December.

    According to her, she underwent 32 tests, all of which came out negative, including checks for cancer, fibroid, kidney issues, malaria and typhoid.

    She expressed gratitude to God and acknowledged her need for proper bed rest, stating she had neglected her body while prioritising work.

    Read Also: Premarital s3x essential to verify partner compatibility – Actress Sarah Martins

    She wrote: “Woke up today and couldn’t feel any part of my body. For a second, I felt lifeless. I still struggled and went to my stores to do inventory and a few interviews for incoming employees, and that was when I slumped.

    “All through December, I worked every single day, and even when my staff travelled for the season celebration, I still kept working. No days off, no stretches, no nothing… just a walking corps working tirelessly to cater for others, forgetting myself.

    “I did over 32 tests today, and all came out negative, including cancer, fibroid, liver, kidney, malaria, typhoid, etc. I guess God took proper care of my organs while I neglected my body.

    “I am typing this from a sick bed but I will be fine because the God that protects the vulnerable kids I struggle for will never fail me. They said I’m extremely exhausted and need proper bed rest. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for your constant protection over my life”.

  • Military Pensions Board honours late General Murtala’s Orderly with historic visit

    Military Pensions Board honours late General Murtala’s Orderly with historic visit

    The Orderly to the late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, Master Warrant Officer Michael Etuwe, has been honoured at his Nasarawa State home by a high-powered delegation led by the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB), Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem.

    The delegation included members of the Ministerial Committee on Veterans’ Welfare and representatives of various veterans’ associations. 

    The visit was in the spirit of the commitment of the Military Pensions Board under the present administration, as well as in commemoration of the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.

    Speaking during the visit, Air Vice Marshal Abdulraheem said the visit served as a “symbolic recognition” of distinguished military service.

    He said: “It also serves as a tribute to veterans whose dedication and sacrifices contributed significantly to the defence and stability of the nation.” 

    Master Warrant Officer Etuwe, served closely with the late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed during a defining era in Nigeria’s history. 

    He was on duty as an orderly to General Murtala Ramat Muhammed and was in the official vehicle on 13th February 1976, when the Head of State was assassinated in Lagos. 

    Read Also: Military Pensions Board deepens ties as chairman meets Defence Minister

    According to AVM Abdukareem, Master Warrant Officer Etuwe service places him among the living witnesses to one of the most significant and defining moments in Nigeria’s national history.

    He reaffirmed the Military Pensions Board’s commitment to the welfare, dignity, and continued engagement of military veterans, stressing that their sacrifices remain an enduring pillar of Nigeria’s peace and national development.

    Etuwe welcomed the visit, describing it as a “rare and meaningful honour.”

    He thanked the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board and members of the veterans’ community for the recognition and show of solidarity.

    According to a statement by the Board’s Public Relations Officer, Squadron Leader Aliyu Mohammed, the visit was concluded in an atmosphere of reflection and mutual respect, reinforcing the shared responsibility of preserving the legacy and wellbeing of those who served the nation with courage and loyalty.

  • Firefighters injured, good worth millions lost in Lagos computer village fire

    Firefighters injured, good worth millions lost in Lagos computer village fire

    Goods worth millions of naira were lost and one of the firefighters deployed to contain the fire that engulfed a building at the popular Lagos Computer, Ikeja, Lagos, also sustained a minor injury.

    According to a preliminary report by the Permanent Secretary,  the Lagos State Emergency Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the agency received a distress call on its  767/112 Toll-Free Emergency Lines at 0155hours.

    “Upon arrival of LRT at the incident scene by 0215hours, it was observed that a fire outbreak occurred in a one-storey commercial building that accommodates dealers in computers and accessories in Computer Village, Ikeja.”

    According to LASEMA, at the scene of the fire,  it observed an intense combustion within the structure. 

    “The one-storey commercial building is primarily used for the storage and sale of computers and accessories.

    “The high volume of combustible materials contributed to the rapid spread of fire,” LASEMA said.

    Read Also: Relocation of Lagos Computer Village divides traders

    According to the agency, the cause of the fire was yet to be determined and no fatalities were recorded, except one Lagos State Firefighter who sustained minor injuries during the operation.

    The victim was later treated and administered first aid treatment on site by LASAMBUS.

    The agency also revealed that the entire top floor of the one-storey commercial building was completely razed.

    “All goods and properties worth millions of naira stored therein were destroyed by the conflagration.

    “Physical examination of the one-storey commercial building revealed partial compromise and requires immediate structural assessment.”

    The Nation gathered the firefighting operations had successfully suppressed and contained the fire within the affected building.

    ” The fire was prevented from escalating to neighbouring structures.

    ” Continuous damping-down operations are ongoing to eliminate residual heat and prevent re-ignition.

    “Rescue and Recovery Operation has been concluded,” LASEMA said. 

  • FULL LIST: 10 footballers who missed crucial penalties in major tournaments

    FULL LIST: 10 footballers who missed crucial penalties in major tournaments

    Penalty shootouts often creates football’s most unforgiving moments. Reputations have been made or destroyed in these shootouts. History shows that it can also be the cruellest moment of all, one kick capable of haunting careers, defining legacies, and rewriting football folklore.

    Here are 10 of the most painful penalty misses in football history, ordered by historical consequence and personal cost.

    1. Roberto Baggio – 1994 World Cup Final

    In the 1994 FIFA World Cup final between Italy and Brazil at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, USA the match ended 0–0 after extra time. During the penalty shootout, Roberto Baggio missed Italy’s fifth penalty by shooting over the crossbar, allowing Brazil to win the shootout 3–2 and secure the World Cup.

    2. Gareth Southgate – Euro 1996 Semi-Final

    England faced Germany in the semi-final of UEFA Euro 1996 at Wembley Stadium. After a 1–1 draw, the match went to penalties. Gareth Southgate had his penalty saved, resulting in Germany winning the shootout and advancing to the final. Germany went on to win the tournament.

    3. David Trezeguet – 2006 World Cup Final

    The 2006 World Cup final between France and Italy finished 1–1 after extra time. In the shootout, David Trezeguet struck the crossbar with France’s second penalty. Italy went on to win the shootout 5–3.

    4. John Terry – 2008 UEFA Champions League Final

    The Champions League final between Chelsea and Manchester United ended 1–1 after extra time in Moscow. During the shootout, Chelsea captain John Terry missed a decisive penalty after slipping during his run-up. Manchester United won the shootout 6–5.

    5. Stuart Pearce – 1990 World Cup Semi-Final

    England played West Germany in the semi-final of the 1990 World Cup in Italy. After a 1–1 draw, the match was decided by penalties. Stuart Pearce missed his penalty, and England were eliminated after losing the shootout 4–3.

    6. Kingsley Coman – 2022 World Cup Final

    France and Argentina drew 3–3 after extra time in the 2022 World Cup final in Lusail. In the penalty shootout, Kingsley Coman had his penalty saved. Argentina won the shootout 4–2.

    7. Aurélien Tchouaméni – 2022 World Cup Final

    In the same shootout, Aurélien Tchouaméni missed France’s second penalty, shooting wide. His miss increased Argentina’s advantage in the shootout.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Top 10 most valuable footballers in the world

    8. Mohamed Salah – 2022 World Cup Qualifying Play-Off

    Egypt faced Senegal in a two-legged CAF World Cup qualifying play-off. After a draw on aggregate, the second leg in Dakar went to penalties. Mohamed Salah missed Egypt’s opening penalty, and Senegal qualified for the 2022 World Cup.

    9. Jadon Sancho – Euro 2020 Final

    The Euro 2020 final between England and Italy ended 1–1 after extra time at Wembley. In the penalty shootout, Jadon Sancho had his penalty saved. Italy won the shootout 3–2.

    10. Brahim Díaz – 2025 AFCON Final

    Most recently, In the Africa Cup of Nations final hosted in Morocco, the match went into extra time after a draw in normal time. Brahim Díaz missed a penalty during regulation time. Senegal later scored in extra time to win the tournament.

  • Music saved me from going to prison – Jeriq

    Music saved me from going to prison – Jeriq

    Rapper Jeremiah Chukwuebuka Ani popularly known as Jeriq, has revealed that music saved him from a life of crime and prison.

    In an interview with X influencer, Smallie, Jeriq disclosed that he was arrested multiple times by law enforcement agencies due to his involvement in vices.

    “I have been arrested multiple times by law enforcement agencies due to vices. If you look at my hands and legs, you will see scars of handcuffs. Anti-cult, police have all arrested me before,” he said.

    According to Jeriq, music became his saving grace, distracting him from negative influences. “Thank God for music. If not for music, I would probably be in prison by now,” he added.

    Read Also: Jeriq: Claim that Igbo artists don’t support one another is wrong

    The Enugu-born rapper shared his struggles to break into the Lagos music scene, initially facing difficulties collaborating with artists.

    However, his 2021 EP “East and West” with Dremo marked a turning point in his career.

    “The first time I came to Lagos, then I wasn’t popping so I didn’t have any opportunity to meet artists. It was difficult to collaborate with any artist then because I was still upcoming and had nothing to offer.

    “However, things changed we I came back in 2021 and I was able to do a collaborative EP with Dremo titled ‘East and West’,” he explained.

    Jeriq also said he is confident that rapping in his native Igbo language will help him gain international recognition, highlighting the global appeal of African languages and culture.

  • Destiny Boy’s mother reveals cause of son’s death

    Destiny Boy’s mother reveals cause of son’s death

    The mother of late singer Destiny Boy, Saida, has disclosed that her 22-year-old son suffered from a long-term illness known as “Ogu oru,” which caused recurring seizures.

    In a viral video, Saida narrated how the family had been managing his condition privately, seeking help from traditional healers, clerics and medical professionals.

    According to Saida, Destiny Boy’s health deteriorated after his child’s naming ceremony, and he was taken to the hospital multiple times.

    Despite their efforts, he succumbed to the illness on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

    Saida dismissed rumors of money rituals, stating that her son was not involved in such activities and that those spreading the rumors were seeking attention.

    She added that the family had kept his illness private due to his superstar status.

    “Destiny went to rest. When he gave birth to his child, about four days after the naming, we went to Oba Edu Ifayomi, who initiated him traditionally. The man likes him as his son, so that’s why he told us to come collect ram for the baby’s naming ceremony. It was then that the sickness caught up with him, causing him to fall.

    “It was there that we took him to the hospital. Oba Edu said we should ensure he’s properly treated and that he will take care of himself. And he kept sending us money even when he was transferred to about two other hospitals. When we saw the trend of the sickness, we told him that we should go traditional, and he said we should bring him to his place. I was the one he even gave the soap to bathe him.

    “We returned, and he was fine. The sickness he battled with was “Ogu oru,” causing him to have seizures. The sickness had almost run him mad. We are the ones who always ensure that he doesn’t run out in the process of calming him.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Ogun police arrest suspect over Destiny Boy’s death

    “Those who use his name to trend may die mysteriously, as he did, if they are not careful. We actually hid this sickness from the public because he was a superstar. We went to different herbalists and clerics to heal him of the illness.

    “On Saturday, he still bought stuff for people, greeted his fans and said he had a show on Sunday. When he had the seizure again, Oba Edu was not around. He went to Ife but returned after he was told about the singer’s condition. He wouldn’t have gone to Ife if Destiny Boy were in good condition. They invited his father too before he was taken to the hospital,” she said.

    The singer’s condition, “Ogu oru,” is a local term for a condition that causes nocturnal seizures and disturbances, often attributed to spiritual attacks.

    Destiny Boy rose to fame in 2019 with his Fuji-style cover of Davido’s hit song “If” and had recently welcomed a child with his partner.

    His death has sparked widespread grief and speculation, with the Ogun police arresting a suspect and launching an investigation.

  • AFCON 2025: NOC President hails Super Eagles’ bronze victory

    AFCON 2025: NOC President hails Super Eagles’ bronze victory

    President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Habu Gumel, has commended the Super Eagles for their display of character and resilience in securing the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    Gumel gave the commendation on Tuesday, in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NOC, Tony Nezianya.

    He praised the national team for their victory over the Pharaohs of Egypt, in the third-place match, describing the result as a reflection of the team’s mental strength and growing maturity.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Super Eagles bounced back from a gruelling semi-final setback to dominate the playoff encounter, demonstrating renewed confidence and determination.

    “The Super Eagles have once again become a source of national pride, displaying the famous ‘never-say-die’ Nigerian spirit against top African opposition,” he said.

    Gumel said that the win underscored the remarkable transformation of the team under the leadership of Coach Eric Chelle.

    Read Also: AFCON Bronze:  Super Eagles jump to 26th  in  latest FIFA Rankings

    According to him, the Super Eagles have undergone significant development within a year, evolving from a goal-shy side into a more clinical and effective attacking unit.

    He noted that Chelle’s influence has helped rebuild the team into a disciplined and respectable squad that commands authority and respect on the pitch.

    He added that the team’s performance reaffirmed Nigeria’s status as a powerhouse in African football.

    Gumel expressed optimism about the future of the team, adding that he looked forward to the continued evolution of an exciting new era for Nigerian football. (NAN)

  • New Horizons targets 1m Almajiris for tech empowerment

    New Horizons targets 1m Almajiris for tech empowerment

    New Horizons Nigeria has unveiled its Almajiri-to-tech initiative aimed at empowering Almajiris and turning them into computer technicians in 90 days.

    Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons Nigeria, Tim Akano disclosed this during the launch of the training programme for 21 Almajiris in Abuja on Monday.

    He said through the initiative, the company hopes to remove one million Almajiris from the streets across Nigeria and equip them with essential digital skills in the next one year.

    Akano explained that the initiative is designed to empower the participants by transforming them into computer technicians within 90-days, tagged, ”From the streets to technicians in 90 days.”

    Akano, who revealed that the training package costs the institute N50million, added that it covers the costs of training, food, clothes, logistics and tools for all the trained Almajiris.

    He said besides Abuja being the pilot programme, the training would be extended to Kano, Kaduna, Zamafara and other parts of the country.

    The New Horizons Nigeria boss underscored the need to move from heavy expenditure on security measures to strategic investments in social development, arguing that success in this effort would significantly reduce the vast sums currently spent on tackling insecurity.

    He added that his estimates indicate that empowering Almajiris could boost Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) by as much as $20 billion within the next 14 to 15 months.

    He said: “If we win this battle, the billions of naira or dollar we spend in fighting insecurity, we don’t need to be spending that billions again, because my calculation shows that if we empower the Almajiri, we can grow our GDP to up to $20 billion in the next 14 or 15 months.

    “The population we have today 15 million Almajiris, and at the birth rate of 3.0 every year. If nothing is done by 2030 we are going to have 30 million Almajiris, which means Abuja where the elite hide today will also become inhabitable.”

    Also speaking, Chairman, Board of Trustees, People Expertise and Excellence Foundation, Engr. Abdullahi Bukar, commended New Horizons Nigeria for what he described as a bold and timely initiative capable of addressing both social exclusion and national security challenges.

    He noted that empowering Almajiris with practical digital skills would not only provide them with sustainable livelihoods but also integrate them productively into the economy, reducing vulnerability to crime and extremism.

    Read Also: Educating the Almajiris

    Bukar stressed that the government alone cannot solve the Almajiri challenge, calling for stronger collaboration between the private sector, civil society organisations and relevant government agencies.

    According to him, initiatives such as the Almajiri-to- tech programme demonstrated how targeted skills development can serve as a long-term solution to poverty and insecurity, urging policymakers to support and scale similar interventions nationwide.

    He further appealed to development partners and well-meaning Nigerians to invest in human capital development, particularly among vulnerable groups, describing it as a critical pathway to national stability and economic growth.

    Bukar expressed confidence that with sustained support and effective coordination, the programme could transform lives and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s quest for inclusive development.

    Also speaking, Founder, Girl Child Concern, Dr. Mairo Mandara described the initiative as a practical model for addressing vulnerability among disadvantaged children through skills acquisition and empowerment.

    She stressed that equipping Almajiris with digital competencies would enhance their self-reliance and dignity, while also contributing to broader efforts to promote social inclusion and national development, calling on stakeholders to sustain and replicate the programme across the country.

    Mandara warned that failure to train and empower them could turn the situation into a ticking time bomb with serious consequences.

    One of the participants, Fatima Umar, expressed gratitude to New Horizons and its partners for the opportunity.

    Umar, who spoke on behalf of the trainees, said that the training would give participants hope for a better future and valuable skills that would enable them to become self-reliant, while pledging their commitment to making good use of the knowledge acquired and contributing positively to society.

  • Lagos partners Time for Africa on sustainable community development

    Lagos partners Time for Africa on sustainable community development

    The Lagos State Government has expressed commitment to forging a strategic partnership with the international non-governmental organisation, Time for Africa Foundation, to accelerate sustainable urban and community development initiatives across key sectors, including health, finance, education, agriculture, and social empowerment.

    The Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, revealed this while hosting officials of the international NGO, led by its Founder/CEO, Dr. Abiodun Olushola, alongside key members of the Lagos State Executive Council, including the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, and the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun.

    The meeting,  at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room, Secretariat, Alausa, focused on leveraging Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) to empower communities and improve service delivery across strategic sectors in Lagos State.

     Oluyomi stated that the partnership is a welcome development as it aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the current administration, promoting Education & Technology, Health & Environment, strategic innovation, social inclusion, and sustainable economic growth, amongst others.

    He emphasised the State’s forward-thinking financial initiatives, highlighting the upcoming launch of Lagos State’s Green Bond. This pioneering move will make Lagos the first sub-national entity in Nigeria to issue a climate-focused investment instrument. The Green Bond, aimed at financing climate-resilient infrastructure and advancing key sectors such as health, environment, and housing.

    He said: “This Green Bond is a landmark achievement for Lagos State. It reflects our dedication to financing sustainable projects that directly impact lives while maintaining fiscal responsibility. He also cited securitisation and tokenisation of state assets as part of the innovations driving Lagos’ rise as one of the largest economies in Africa.

    Prof. Akin Abayomi shared ongoing innovations within the health sector, including advances in precision diagnosis, early detection and personalised cancer treatment, the deployment of robust artificial intelligence strategies for efficient data management and enhanced access to prompt medical care, as well as efforts to localise medical solutions through indigenous research and development.

    Abayomi stated that these initiatives illustrate Lagos State Government’s holistic and innovation-driven approach, from digital systems and medical education to specialised care and community outreach, to strengthen healthcare delivery and outcomes across the state.

    Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, Commissioner for Women and Poverty Alleviation, outlined various empowerment initiatives targeting women and vulnerable groups, including grassroots skill acquisition programmes, policy development aimed at long-term socio-economic inclusion, and the provision of startup equipment to beneficiaries to enable them launch and sustain their own businesses after training.

    In the education sector, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to free education from early childhood through senior secondary level, including the payment of WAEC examination fees for all eligible students. 

    He highlighted ongoing efforts to provide a conducive teaching and learning environment through the construction of modern classrooms, as well as the implementation of targeted programmes aimed at reintegrating out-of-school children.

    Alli-Balogun also noted the State’s strategic collaborations with international organisations such as UNICEF and the World Bank, to align with global best practices and further strengthen the quality and accessibility of education in Lagos State.

    Commissioner for Finance, Oluyomi, emphasised that there will be a follow-up meeting, which will include the commissioners for the Environment, Science and Technology, Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, to formalise a partnership that aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the State Government.

    Dr. Abiodun Olushola, the Founder/CEO, the International NGO, praised the Lagos State Government for its visionary policies that align with global best practices. She reaffirmed the foundation’s readiness to collaborate, invest, and support the State through international partnerships, training programmes, and investor-backed initiatives.

    “This partnership marks a turning point for scalable impact in Nigeria. We are excited to work with Lagos State to drive community empowerment using next-generation technologies,” Dr. Olushola stated.

    Members of NGO, who are Oxford and Cambridge Alumni include, Anna Mwasha, Dan Chapman, Ethan Wang, Dr. Kanhu Pattnayak, Leo Wang, Pravena Mohan, and Rebeca DIaz.

  • FG, Osun govt train 100 youths, corps members on digital skills 

    FG, Osun govt train 100 youths, corps members on digital skills 

    The Federal Government, in partnership with the Osun State Government, has trained 100 youths and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in key digital skills aimed at boosting employability, innovation and youth participation in the digital economy.

    At the flag-off of the training at the SDGs centre Dagbolu, Osogbo on Monday, the Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Sustainable Development Goals, Bamikole Omisore, explained that the 6-month training was aimed at empowering the youths of the state freely by the Federal government. 

    Omisore, who was represented by the Director of Administration SDGs office, Mr Adeyeye Adebanke said, the initiative was targeted at empowering youths with the in-demand technology training to make themselves self-sufficient economically.

    According to him, “The training is targeting the undergraduates, unemployed and others who are interested in system networking installation. We have a total of 100 youths participating in the training, they were selected randomly based on the educational background and interest in technology growth.

    “This is within the mandate of the SDGs goal 4; quality education, goal 8; decent work and economy growth. It is expected that at least at the end of the programme the participants would have enough knowledge of networking and they will be able to stand on their own and be part of the State’s development process”.

    Similarly,  the resources tech representaive from Fluid click solutions, Professor Segun Aina said the firm was hired by the Federal Ministry of Education, TVET project to develop special manpower for the growing digital sector in the country.

    He added that the 100 beneficiaries from Osun were drawn in conjunction with the Sustainable Development Goals office for training in system networking installation.

    “We are to train our students on digital skills and the sector we are basically focusing on is the network system installation majorly networking. The training is going to go for six months, four months training and two months internship.”