The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • NIWA commences clean up of Warri jetties

    NIWA commences clean up of Warri jetties

    The management and staff of the Warri Area Office of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has commenced cleaning-up exercise of some major jetties within the commercial city.

    The exercise, which commenced from Tuesday, December 9, 2025 to Monday, January 12, 2026, saw three major jetties including; Pessu Waterside, Main Market and Ugbuwangue jetties wearing a new look as all the aquatic weeds, common water hyacinth, floating nylons, plastics and drinking cans as well as refuse dumps were cleared.

    Speaking during the exercise, the Warri Area Manager, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Engr Rufus Oladimeji, said the exercise was part of NIWA’s ongoing efforts to ensure safe navigation aimed at sustaining inland water transport in the country.

    According to him: “Due to the importance attached to this ongoing cleanup, we have been directed to sustain the exercise until the waterways are fully desilted and made navigable to boat operators plying these routes for the safety of their passengers”.

    While disclosing that the management had made a commitment towards the desilting of the Pessu waterways, Oladimeji noted that “Water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic weed, has been a recurring issue in Nigerian waterways, disrupting navigation, fishing, and local livelihoods”.

    Reacting to the ongoing cleanup exercise, boat passengers at Ugbuwangue have applauded the management and staff of NIWA Warri office for taking it upon themselves to commence the cleanup exercise and called on the federal government to ensure the sustenance of the operations for the safety of commercial transport passengers across the country.

    Operators of Pessu waterways in Warri South Council area, have commended the efforts of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Adegboyega Oyetola, for his reassurance to embark on the desilting of the Pessu waterways, describing it as as long overdue in opening up the commercial activities of Warri and its environs.

  • EbonyLife films to adapt Lola Shoneyin’s ‘The Secret lives of Baba Segi’s wives’ for 2026 release

    EbonyLife films to adapt Lola Shoneyin’s ‘The Secret lives of Baba Segi’s wives’ for 2026 release

    EbonyLife Films, led by Mo Abudu, is set to release a film adaptation of Lola Shoneyin’s novel, “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives”, in December 2026.

    The film explores themes of power, rivalry and gender politics within a polygamous household, featuring an ensemble cast including Iyabo Ojo, Bimbo Ademoye and Omowunmi Dada.

    Produced in partnership with Nile Media Entertainment, Genesis Group, and Silverbird Group, the film marks EbonyLife’s return to cinemas after years of hiatus.

    Mo Abudu on Instagram, wrote: “BIG NEWS! The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives hits the big screen in December 2026. This is the first-ever feature film adaptation of Lola Shoneyin’s acclaimed masterpiece, @lolashoneyin.

    “In an unprecedented partnership, EbonyLife Group @ebonylifestudios is teaming up with Genesis Group @genesiscinemas, Nile Group @the.nilegroup, and SilverBird Group @silverbirdgroupng to bring this powerhouse story to the world stage”.

    Lola Shoneyin, the author of the original novel, is also attached to the project as a producer, with Adze Ugah adapting the screenplay and Daniel Oriahi directing.

    The novel, published in 2010, has gained international recognition for its sharp social commentary and portrayal of marriage, fertility, and female agency. 

  • Why I prefer stylish women to rich ones – Rema

    Why I prefer stylish women to rich ones – Rema

    Afrobeats star Rema has revealed his preference for a stylish partner over a wealthy one.

    In a recent interview, the 25-year-old singer stated that since he already has financial stability, a woman’s fashion sense is more important to him.

    When asked whether he would choose a woman with style or funds, Rema replied, “I already got the funds, so style.”

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    Rema, born Divine Ikubor, is a singer, songwriter, and gained recognition with his 2019 song ‘Dumebi’. 

    Born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, Rema’s music blends Afrobeat, trap, and pop, setting him apart in the Nigerian music scene.

  • Emir Sanusi returns to school, secures law admission at Kano varsity

    Emir Sanusi returns to school, secures law admission at Kano varsity

    The Emir of Kano, Dr. Muhammadu Sanusi II, has been granted a special admission into the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) Common Law and Sharia programme at the Northwest University, Kano.

    Northwest University, Kano is a state-owned tertiary institution offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various disciplines, including law, sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

    The approval was conveyed in an official letter dated January 12, 2026 by the Head of Directorate of Examinations, Admissions and Records of the university, Jafaru Muhammad, for the Registrar of the institution.

    According to the letter posted by former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, on his X handle, the special admission followed an application submitted by the Emir approved after he satisfied the university’s requirements for special consideration.

    The letter stated that the admission places him at Level 200 in the Faculty of Law, with effect from the 2024/2025 academic session.

    “With reference to your application for special admission into this University, I write to convey the University approval of your admission into Northwest University, Kano after satisfying the University requirements for special consideration.

    “Accordingly, you have been accepted for admission into LL.B. Common Law and Sharia degree programme in the Faculty of Law, Level 200, with effect from 2024/2025 Academic Session.,” the letter stated.

    The institution noted that the admission is subject to the Emir’s compliance with the rules and regulations contained in the Northwest University Student Handbook.

  • 103-year-old woman dies in Lagos fire outbreak

    103-year-old woman dies in Lagos fire outbreak

    A 103-year-old woman died in a fire outbreak at a residential building in the Oyingbo area of Lagos.

    The incident occurred at No. 8, Bola Street, off Kadara Street where a fire reportedly started in one of the rooms before spreading to other parts of the building.

    Confirming the incident in a statement, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said the agency received a distress call through its 767/112 toll-free emergency lines around 11:43 a.m.

    According to him, LASEMA immediately activated the state’s emergency response plan from its Onipanu Base, with its response team arriving at the scene at about 12:13 p.m.

    He said officials met a residential bungalow with two attached shops already engulfed in flames on arrival.

    Oke-Osanyintolu disclosed that the inferno affected eight room-and-parlour apartments, one mini-flat, a self-contained apartment, six shops and several household items, with losses estimated at millions of naira.

    He added that the cause of the fire had yet to be ascertained as of the time of filing this report.

    The LASEMA boss said emergency responders conducted a risk assessment, cordoned off the area and implemented necessary safety measures to prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining buildings.

    He noted that the fire was eventually brought under control, while the remains of the deceased were recovered and handed over to her family.

    Oke-Osanyintolu commended the combined efforts of LASEMA officials, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps and officials of the Lagos Mainland Local Government for their swift and coordinated response to the incident.

  • Special effects artist James Akaie dies in Ogun film set explosion

    Special effects artist James Akaie dies in Ogun film set explosion

    Nollywood special effects artist James Akaie has died in an explosion on a movie set in Abeokuta, Ogun State. 

    According to the film production crew, RockBottom Flix, the incident occurred while Akaie was experimenting with an unauthorised pyrotechnic simulation involving a gas cylinder with two assistants. 

    He sustained severe injuries and died at the hospital, while his assistants suffered fire burns but are receiving treatment and are stable.

    The producer and director of the film, James Abinibi, confirmed the incident, describing Akaie as a brilliant and passionate artist who inspired everyone with his craft. 

    “It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we confirm a tragic accident occurred on location in Abeokuta as filming was coming to a wrap, resulting in the death of our esteemed colleague and friend, James Akaie.

    “During a filming session, a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside of the film set where James was experimenting on an unauthorised pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants.

    “James succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His two other assistants sustained some fire burns and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital where they received immediate attention and were later confirmed stable as they continue receiving treatment.

    “Investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion, with the production team cooperating with authorities.

    “The specific circumstances leading to the explosion are currently under a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities. We are cooperating fully with this investigation as we further conduct our own internal review,” Abinibi stated.

    “James was a brilliant and passionate Special Effects and Pyrotechnics Artist, whose creativity, dedication and love for his craft inspired everyone who worked with him,” he said.

    “We will remember him not only for his exceptional skill but for the vibrant presence he brought to our set every day. We ask that the privacy of James’s family and our crew be respected as they navigate this unimaginable loss,” the statement added.

    Akaie was known for his outstanding work on several Nollywood movies, including “Mai Martaba”, “The Night of June 7th”, “Dark October”, and “Ireke”.

  • Vee opens up on marital pressure ahead 30th birthday

    Vee opens up on marital pressure ahead 30th birthday

    Actress and singer, Vee Iye has spoken out about the marital pressures of approaching 30.

    In a TikTok video, she shared a conversation with a married friend who asked about her marital status, stressing on the societal expectations women face.

    Vee expressed frustration, noting her friend didn’t ask about her work or wellbeing, only about having a man in her life. 

    According to her: “Nobody ever mentally prepared me for the amount of conversations I would have as a woman turning 30 this year. One of my friends called me last week. I hadn’t spoken to her in months, maybe even a year. She’s married and relocated to another country with her family.”

    Vee explained that after exchanging greetings, her friend said she had been praying and felt prompted to ask her a question. “The next thing she asked was, ‘When are you getting married?’ I am tired. She didn’t even ask me about work—the thing that is putting a roof over my head, the reason I can eat every single day. She cared about whether there is a man in my life.”

    She referenced Nigeria’s economic challenges, saying questions about marriage feel out of touch.

    “Let’s be honest with ourselves, the current climate right now is not looking great. I’m trying to focus on work and what’s next for me. That’s what’s running through my mind right now. Husband? Marriage? Children? I think not.”

    She added, “It’s not like I don’t want these things in the future. I do. But I am not in control of the timeline.”

  • Tinubu laying strong foundation for long-term prosperity – Information Minister

    Tinubu laying strong foundation for long-term prosperity – Information Minister

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, says President Bola Tinubu is laying strong foundation for long-term growth and shared prosperity.

    Idris stated this when he received members of the Grassroots Advocacy for Tinubu (GAT) 2027 on a courtesy visit.

    This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim.

    “The administration has taken bold and sometimes difficult decisions to place Nigeria on a more sustainable path.

    ” Early signs of recovery are becoming evident across key sectors of the economy.

    “These steps were taken to stabilise the economy and restore confidence.

    “What we are seeing today are the foundations for long-term growth and shared prosperity.

    “As a result, Nigeria’s improving economic outlook must be protected through unity, responsible communication, and collective support for national policies.

    “I want to warn that distorted narratives about the country hurt investors’ confidence and slow development.

    “We must speak positively and truthfully about Nigeria. 

    ” When we project stability and unity, we attract investments and create opportunities for our people,” Idris said.

    The minister commended the GAT 2027 group for its civic engagement and acceptance of responsibility in supporting accurate public information.

    He also welcomed the group’s proposal for partnership with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation Agency in the areas of public enlightenment, youth engagement, and strategic communication.

    According to him, advocacy groups play an important role in helping government policies reach the grassroots.

    He described effective communication as essential to national stability and development.

    The minister also reaffirmed the president’s commitment to making Nigeria work for all citizens, regardless of religion or background.

    Idris assured the delegation that the ministry would continue to work with credible groups to ensure accurate information is widely shared.

    GAT 2027 National Coordinator, Prof. Ochugudu Ipuele, in his remarks, said the group came to formally brief the minister on its activities.

    He also said the visit was to show solidarity with his mandate of informing Nigerians and clarifying government policies.

    “We are here to solidarise with you on the mandate you have for Nigeria, which is to inform the country, clarify government policies, and take information to the grassroots.

    “The group is committed to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s policies by countering distorted narratives, especially during election periods, and by engaging young people.

    “This group is poised to respond in real time to false or misleading information in the public space and to engage the youth,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Atiku’s son’s defection to our party, political earthquake, Lagos APC

    Atiku’s son’s defection to our party, political earthquake, Lagos APC

    The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the recent defection of the son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as a political earthquake for the former presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

    A statement issued on Friday by the spokesperson of the party in Lagos, Seye Oladejo, noted ”with unmistakable clarity, the political earthquake occasioned by the decision of Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to openly reject the pretentious ADC contraption and pitch his tent with the APC. This singular act has said more than a thousand press conferences ever could.”

    The statement read in part: ”When a man’s own son deserts his political judgment, repudiates his choices, and embraces an alternative path, Nigerians are entitled to ask: what deeper indictment of credibility is required? If those closest to you are unconvinced by your political convictions, how do you expect an entire nation to suspend disbelief?

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    ”For decades, Nigerians have endured Atiku Abubakar’s ideological wanderings -a restless political odyssey defined by serial defections, transactional alliances, and an obsession with the Presidency that has outlived both public patience and political relevance. From PDP to AC, back to PDP, and now to the ADC, his politics has been nothing more than a nomadic ambition in search of a party – any party -willing to mortgage its soul. That his own son has now drawn a clear line of departure is not a coincidence; it is a confession.

    ”Abubakar Atiku Abubakar’s decision to join the APC is a generational rebuke of recycled politics, expired ambitions, and the illusion of leadership without conviction. It is an emphatic vote of confidence in the APC’s record of governance and in the Renewed Hope Agenda being diligently implemented under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    Oladejo added: ”Let it be said without equivocation: when credibility collapses at home, it cannot be rehabilitated in the marketplace of national politics. Nigerians are discerning enough to understand that trust begins from within, and leadership that cannot inspire loyalty in its immediate constituency cannot inspire confidence in a nation of over 200 million people.”

  • Ogun monarch cautions Alaafin over statement on rotation of Oyo obas council’s head

    Ogun monarch cautions Alaafin over statement on rotation of Oyo obas council’s head

    The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has urged the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, to desist from taking issues with Governor Seyi Makinde over the newly reconstituted rotational Oyo Council of Obas, which saw the emergence of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Rashidi Ladoja, as chairman.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, Oba Akinyemi noted that as a traditional ruler, Oba Owoade should understand that he should not be challenging the decisions of the Governor (Makinde) of his state on the pages of newspapers and social media.

    The statement read in part: On Thursday, 15th January, 2026, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, inaugurated the maiden rotational Oyo State Council of Obas with the appointment of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Rashidi Ladoja as the Chairman of the council for a two-year term. According to the Governor, he consulted the three prominent monarchs in Oyo State- Alaafin of Oyo, Olubadan of Ibadan and Soun of Ogbomoso before the inauguration, and the trio supported the appointment of Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Adewolu Rashidi Ladoja as the pioneer chairman of the council for a two-year term. The Alaafin was conspicuously absent at the inauguration ceremony for a reason known to him.

    ”Some hours after the inauguration ceremony, there was a press release from the Palace of Alaafin of Oyo, stating that Governor Seyi Makinde did not consult the Alaafin. This statement simply means that Alaafin of Oyo is saying that Governor Seyi Makinde is lying.”

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    ”As a Traditional Ruler with over two (2) decades of experience, I, Eselu of Iselu, view the reaction of the Alaafin as an affront to the Office of the Governor of Oyo State. My candid advice to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, is that he should withdraw the press release and stop further comments on the matter on the pages of newspapers so as not to incur the wrath of the Government of Oyo State. Rotation of Chairmanship of a Traditional Council (of monarchs) happens in many States in our country, Nigeria, so the action of Governor Seyi Makinde should not be seen as a strange decision. The truth is that the days of the Oyo Empir,e when the Alaafin of Oyo could lay claim to the Permanent Chairmanship of the State’s Council of Obas, are gone.”

    Oba Akinyemi added: ”It is a fact that the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo are the overall heads of the Yoruba race, and all of us must do everything to prevent the desecration of their revered stools. However, we must remember that we are no longer in the era when monarchs were the heads of government. Specifically, the Alaafin should note that actions such as this can always come with consequences because the Governor and his Executive Council have the power to impose and depose any monarch who is guilty of disobedience and insubordination, and nothing will change such decisions of the government.

    ‘Finally, I want to admonish the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, to sheath his sword and not allow any sentiments that can threaten the revered stool of Oyo Land. The Alaafin of Oyo should note that anyone advising him to confront the Governor and rock the boat with him (the Governor) does not like him (Kabiyesi). As someone who came back from Canada to be enthroned as the Alaafin, I personally want you to succeed and enjoy your reign on the throne, so Your Imperial Majesty should do away with bad advisers.”