The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Laliga: Real Madrid beat Levante 2-0 to secure first win under Arbeloa

    Laliga: Real Madrid beat Levante 2-0 to secure first win under Arbeloa

    Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa believes fan protests at the Bernabeu came from “people who don’t like” the club as his side beat Levante to move to within one point of La Liga leaders Barcelona.

    Madrid supporters waved white handkerchiefs before kick-off on Saturday and then aimed boos and whistles at players – in particular Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Federico Valverde – as well as president Florentino Perez.

    “I know the source of these chants and campaigns. They come from people who don’t like Real Madrid,” said Arbeloa.

    “It’s a pleasure to have a president who is the most important figure in the history of this club, alongside Santiago Bernabeu. 

    “He has achieved everything, and I know the source of these chants.”

    The former Liverpool and Real Madrid defender – who replaced Xabi Alonso as manager on Monday – was also targeted during the game.

    Second-half goals from Kylian Mbappe and Raul Asencio helped the 15-time European Cup winners seal a 2-0 victory at the end of a tumultuous week.

    “I’ve always respected the Bernabeu, I’ve been booed a lot too. It wasn’t a good week for us, and the fans have the right to express their anger,” added Arbeloa.

    “I don’t think booing at Vini will continue. I respect the Bernabeu crowd. Their demands motivate the players to give their best.”

    After a humiliating defeat in the Copa del Rey to second division side Albacete on Wednesday, Arbeloa restored Mbappe and Bellingham to the starting XI for his first La Liga match in charge.

    The unrest among supporters became clear in the opening 10 minutes when Bellingham was the subject of jeers from the stands despite driving his side towards goal.

    After managing only one shot on target in the first half, Arbeloa shuffled his pack at the break and called upon Arda Guler and Franco Mastantuono for the second half.

    In the 58th minute, Mbappe broke the deadlock from the penalty spot after drawing a foul from Adrian de la Fuente. 

    The France forward – who is La Liga’s top scorer this season with 19 goals – was one of a few players, along with 21-year-old forward Gonzalo Garcia, not to be jeered by the Real fans.

    Defender Asencio added a second for the hosts seven minutes later when he climbed highest to head home Guler’s corner.

    Real are next in action on Tuesday when they host Monaco in the Champions League.

  • Obaseki’s kinsmen hail Okpebholo on road construction

    Obaseki’s kinsmen hail Okpebholo on road construction

    Kinsmen of former Governor Godwin Obaseki have jailed Governor Monday Okpebholo for fulfilling his promise to construct the 14 kilometres Eguaholor-Iguomon-Uvbenisi-Oza Road with a spur to Ohe community.

    They said the road which linked Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon local government areas was neglected by their son.

    The former Edo Governor kinsmen spoke when Okpebholo inspected the road project which connected several agrarian communities.

    Mrs. Oyenmwen Igbinedion said they were happy that they could now take their farms produce to the market.

    She said: “Okpebholo has rescued us from darkness and it shows that the All Progressive Congress (APC) is a party to be trusted and this have shown that Governor Okpebholo’s administration is delivering practical governance to Edo people”.

    The counsellor representing Isi North in Uhunmwode local government area, Hon. Friday Agbonze, said the people suffered a lot due to the abandoned road.

    He said the construction has helped to boost economic resources of the people of the area.

    “Before now, we made several attempts to reach the former governor, Obaseki who is from this our community and he did nothing to help us. Thank God in just one year, governor Okpebholo has brought road to us and opened up our community. We are so very happy”.

    Speaking to journalists, Okpebholo said: :This is Obaseki’s Community, you can see the excitement on the faces of the people, how they have all come out to welcome us. Obaseki was governor of Edo State for eight years and never remembered his people.

    “When I came during my campaigns, i promised them that when I win the elections I will come and do this road. The road then was completely bad and inaccessible. This is my second time coming here. The first time was when I came to flag off this road and the second time now is to inspect the progress of the job done so far”.

    Okpebholo stated that construction of the road attested to the support of President Bola Tinubu in Edo’s Infrastructure and agricultural revolution drive.

    He expressed optimism  that the benefitting residents would appreciate President Tinubu with maximum votes in 2027.

    “The people are happy as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is demonstrating practical governance in Edo State, delivering the dividends of democracy to Edo people.

    “When we are talking about 2.5 million votes in Edo, people think we are joking. Edo people will not vote for another person because they have experienced growth and development in the State. 2027 is settled because it’s the judgement day and no matter the party they shall all be defeated in Edo State.

    “Our work is speaking for us as long as the President keeps giving us money, we will continue to use it to work for Edo people and develop the State and ensure the people  keep smiling”.

  • Presidential tax committee, tax Ombud to protect taxpayers’ rights

    Presidential tax committee, tax Ombud to protect taxpayers’ rights

    The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee (PFPTRC) and the Office of the Tax Ombud have partnered to enhance taxpayers’ trust and compliance through transparent mediation and accountability.  

    The collaboration was declared in Abuja following a meeting between the Tax Ombud/CEO, Dr. John Nwabueze, and the Chairman of the PFPTRC, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele.  

    In a statement by Chukwudi Achife, Chief Press Secretary to the Tax Ombud/CEO, Dr. Nwabueze noted that the Office of the Tax Ombud serves as a mediation safety net for small and medium enterprises as well as multinational companies as the Office receives and resolves issues related to taxes, levies, charges, customs duties, and other related matters.  

    Describing the Office as a fair and efficient mediator between tax authorities and taxpayers, Dr. Nwabueze stated: “Nigerian taxpayers can now save the cost of arbitration while still obtaining justice by resolving their tax complaints through the Office.” 

    Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Oyedele noted that the meeting was part of ongoing efforts to support the effective implementation of tax reforms. 

    Oyedele said: “The Office of the Tax Ombud is an independent and impartial body established under the new tax laws to protect taxpayer rights, resolve complaints quickly and fairly, and build trust in the tax system through mediation and advocacy.”  

    He added: “Our engagement focused on collaboration with the Tax Ombud, given his critical role in ensuring that the reforms deliver not just better tax systems, but a fairer and more responsive tax administration for taxpayers.” 

  • Ogunbiyi collapses structure for Oyebamiji, declares senatorial ambition

    Ogunbiyi collapses structure for Oyebamiji, declares senatorial ambition

    A former governorship aspirant and Chairman, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Akin Ogunbiyi, on Saturday collapsed his political structure for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) ahead of the 2026 election. 

    The Ile-Ogbo-born politician also declared intention to contest the Osun West Senatorial seat on the APC ticket. 

    The Nation recalls Ogunbiyi, who christened his political movement ‘Idera De’, was among the eight contenders for the APC guber ticket which Oyebamiji later clinched through a consensus arrangement. 

    Ogunbiyi, while addressing supporters across the state during a debrief meeting with members and leaders of his campaign structure in Osogbo, commended them for their steadfastness. 

    According to him: “We are very happy because I am from the West and we want the governorship candidate to emerge from the Osun West. We are grateful to God that one has happened. 

    “As for my belief and vision to govern the state. That has become a secondary issue now that a candidate of the party has emerged. So I have come to brief my supporters across the state that there is no more grouping. Just like all of us, aspirants, nine of us, we all agree to work for the party.

    “Everyone of us had a meeting and we resolved that everyone of us will work. We will do everything within our respective constituencies to ensure that Bola Oyebamiji emerges as the governor of Osun State from August this year.”

    He expressed confidence that Oyebamiji will emerge winner on August 8, 2026. 

    He said: “Our leaders have individually and collectively mentioned to me that I will pick the senatorial ticket. I don’t have any reason to doubt them. So I’m putting on record to my supporters that we have not lost anything.

    “The most important thing is for Bola Oyebamiji to emerge as the elected governor. If that happens, by the grace of God, I, Akin Ogunbiyi, from Iwo Federal constituency, by the special grace of God and the support of our leaders, I will emerge as the senator of the West.”

    Subsequently, he officially disbanded his political structure, charging them to work tirelessly for Oyebamiji’s emergence as the governor of Osun State. 

    “Before I came to do this today, I had all my caucuses, we had all met and resolved that the party’s candidate is the ultimate that we have to work for. That has been done. We may not be too happy that they didn’t give us the governorship, but that doesn’t mean that we are still not going to work for the party. 

    “We have 170,000 votes in Iwo, and I am telling everybody that by the special grace of God, progressives should count on Iwo, as we have always done in the past, we will still deliver for Oyebamiji and we will deliver for APC.”

  • Baddy of Lagos takes first steps after surgery

    Baddy of Lagos takes first steps after surgery

    Lagos-based influencer David Obadiah popularly known as Baddy of Lagos has shared an update on his recovery journey, taking his first steps with a straightened leg following orthopedic surgery in Egypt. 

    The procedure was made possible through a crowdfunding campaign initiated by fellow influencer Wizarab, who rallied support for Baddy’s treatment.

    Baddy had sought financial help to correct a congenital leg condition that left his legs bowed. 

    The surgery was done in stages, with one leg operated on at a time due to the intensity of the procedure and recovery process.

    In a post on his X page, Baddy expressed gratitude to supporters, sharing a photo of himself walking with a crutch. 

    “First steps with my leg post surgery, y’all gave me this. So I have to fully heal from my right leg before I can go back to Egypt for the left one, it was impossible to do both at the same time,” he wrote.

  • Senator Akwashiki buried amid tears

    Senator Akwashiki buried amid tears

    The remains of Senator Godiya Akwashiki were laid to rest on Saturday at his private residence in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

    Akwashiki, who died on December 31 2025 at an Indian hospital, was buried amid tears and tributes from dignitaries, friends, political colleagues and family members.

    Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North on the platform of the SDP, chaired the Senate committee on Air Force died in India.

    The Archbishop of Jos, Most Reverend Dr Mathew Ishaya Audu, who presided over the burial mass at St Williams Cathedral Lafia describe Akwashiki’s death as a lesson to the living, emphasising the importance of leadership and exemplary life to be remembered after one’s passing.

    He described the death of the Senator as a great lost to the Christian community, the state and the nation.

    Read Also: Tribunal dismisses PDP’s petition against Senator Akwashiki

    In his preaching, Vicar General, Lafia Diocese, Very Reverend Father Mathew Ofoku said Akwashiki lived a righteous life, contributed immensely towards the development of Christianity, empowerment of his people and the development of the state.

    He said the legislator would be remembered for years to come for the legacy he left behind such as support to the church and empowerment programmes that touched the lives of many people.

    He called on believers to have the fear of God and always remember the last day and live a righteous life. 

    Rev. Mathew urged faithfuls to pray for the nation stability, peace and security and to overcome its numerous challenges.

    Dignitaries in attendance were Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro and many serving senators.

    Governors Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa) and Caleb Muftang (Plateau) also attended. 

  • Gospel singer ‘Omije Ojumi’ for burial January 21

    Gospel singer ‘Omije Ojumi’ for burial January 21

    The family and friends of late gospel singer, Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi have announced schedule for her final burial rites after she died on January 12 after a prolonged illness.

    Months before her death, Akinnaanu had publicly appealed for prayers and healing while struggling with the illness.

    The burial arrangements were announced by fellow gospel singer, Alayo Melody, in an Instagram post, alongside a flier detailing the programme of events.

    According to the programme of events, the burial ceremonies will commence on Tuesday, January 20, with a service of songs at the LTV 8 Ground, Ikeja, Lagos, followed by a candlelight procession and tribute night.

    Read Also: Why Omije Ojumi wasn’t flown abroad for treatment – Alayo Melody

    The interment will take place on Wednesday, January 21 and will be held privately for family members and close associates.

    Akinnaanu, who rose to fame with her hit song Omije Ojumi, had left a career in banking to pursue gospel music full-time.

  • AFCON: Osimhen, Lookman benched as Nigeria face Egypt in third-place playoff

    AFCON: Osimhen, Lookman benched as Nigeria face Egypt in third-place playoff

    Nigerian stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will not start for the Super Eagles in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 third-place playoff against Egypt.

    Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle opted to rotate his squad for Nigeria’s final game of the tournament in Morocco, making five changes to the team that lost on penalties to Morocco in the semi-finals. Alex Iwobi has also been named among the substitutes.

    Paul Onuachu will lead the line for Nigeria while Moses Simon takes over the captain’s armband and starts on the wing. Samuel Chukwueze, who missed his penalty in the semi-final shootout defeat, is handed a starting role as Chelle looks to freshen up his attacking options.

    Read Also: Goldberg reinforces support for Super Eagles for Bronze medal match

    In defence, Igoh Ogbu is the only change, coming in for the suspended Calvin Bassey. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also starts as Nigeria aim to end the tournament on a positive note.

    The Super Eagles are chasing a ninth bronze medal in AFCON history and boast an impressive record in third-place matches, having never lost one.

    Super Eagles Starting XI

    Stanley Nwabali; Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel; Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon (C); Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu.

  • Man rams SUV into police checkpoints, injures three

    Man rams SUV into police checkpoints, injures three

    The Edo State Police Command has confirmed arrest of a teenager, Nsikak Okon, 19, who rammed a N28m SUV into a police checkpoint and injured three policemen.

    It said the policemen were receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

    Spokesman for the Edo Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, in a statement, said the incident happened on December 24 at Iyekogba Estate Gate, Oredo local government area.

    Ikoedem said investigations showed the suspect was an unlicensed driver, adding that the black Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV, valued at ₦28m, was not registered despite being in use since May 2024.

    She listed items recovered from the suspect to include a substance suspected to be Canadian Loud and a Sprite bottle containing sky-blue liquid suspected to be diluted refnol.

    According to her: The Command wishes to reiterate this directive and strongly warns that there is absolutely no justifiable reason for any motorist to speed through a police checkpoint except with the intention to evade lawful checks or endanger the lives of officers on duty.

    Read Also: Okpebholo sacks Edo Line MD

    “A reckless driver drove against traffic, breached a police checkpoint barricade, made a turn and drove back at officers on duty, knocking down three police personnel, who were on lawful duty. The reckless driver eventually crashed into multiple vehicles before being restrained and arrested. The injured officers are currently receiving medical attention.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, emphasizes that any person who deliberately attacks or attempts to harm Police officers on lawful duty will not be spared, stressing that enough is enough. The Command assures the public that it remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety.”

  • Tech expert Benjamin Oyemonlan receives two awards at CoolWealth Awards

    Tech expert Benjamin Oyemonlan receives two awards at CoolWealth Awards

    Fintech executive, Benjamin Oyemonlan, started 2026 hitting the ground running with two awards at the CoolWealth Awards in Lagos.

    The founder and chief executive officer of Platnova, a financial technology company focused on cross-border payments and digital banking services for users in Africa, received the Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Humanitarian Personality of the Year awards.

    Like.most illustrious personalities,  Benjamin Oyemonlan started his career in software development and financial technology, working on digital payment systems and blockchain-related projects. He became known in parts of the African technology community under the name “Trillbjm” for his involvement in early cryptocurrency and fintech initiatives targeted at young users and small businesses.

    Reports in Nigerian media have described his early work in software engineering and digital finance, as well as his involvement in projects aimed at improving access to online payments and alternative financial tools for underserved users.

    Oyemonlan is the founder and CEO of Platnova, a fintech platform that provides multi-currency virtual accounts, payment cards, and cross-border transfer services for individuals and businesses.

    The company focuses on enabling African freelancers, startups, and small businesses to receive and send international payments and to access digital banking tools that are often limited by traditional banking infrastructure.

    Since its launch, Platnova has operated in several African markets and has positioned itself within the growing sector of digital financial services supporting remote work and online commerce.

    In January 2026, Oyemonlan was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Humanitarian Personality of the Year at the Cool Wealth Awards held in Lagos, Nigeria.

    According to the award organisers, the recognitions were based on his role in building financial technology products and his involvement in community-focused initiatives.

    He has also been featured in several Nigerian newspapers and business publications, including Vanguard, The Guardian, BusinessDay, The Nation, Independent, Leadership, Daily Times, The Sun, New Telegraph, TheCable Lifestyle, Authority NG, and ThisDay, in relation to his work in fintech and youth entrepreneurship.

    Benjamin Oyemonlan has been involved in educational support projects, digital-skills training programmes, and community development initiatives aimed at young people and low-income communities.

    These activities contributed to his selection for the Humanitarian Personality of the Year award in 2026.

    As a public figure, Benjamin Oyemonlan maintains a public presence through technology conferences, media interviews, and social media platforms. His professional profile has been referenced by Nigerian business and technology media in coverage of fintech development and digital entrepreneurship.