The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Ekpoma riot was sponsored from overseas, Okpebholo insists

    Ekpoma riot was sponsored from overseas, Okpebholo insists

    …says arrested AAU students culpable

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said that sponsors of last week’s protest in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area, have been identified.

    The governor said the protest was a well-organised riot sponsored by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas.

    He said there were strong indications that opposition elements, “possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest in a bid to discredit the Edo State Government and create chaos.”

    The Edo Governor, who spoke in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, said it was part of a coordinated attempt to misinform the public and destabilise the state.

    Read Also: Okpebholo vows to tackle kidnappers

    The statement said security agencies have identified the masterminds, who contacted several individuals in Ekpoma and proposed sponsoring the organisation of coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House, Benin City, with funding from the diaspora.

    It said those arrested were intercepted while allegedly heading to vandalise property on campus, and others were faces identified on a viral video of the incident showing various acts of arson carried out.

    According to the statement, “Most of the arrests were based on clear evidence, including a video showing acts of violence and destruction. The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters. The government also emphasised that the incident has no connection whatsoever with students or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

    “There are also strong indications, the government said, that opposition elements, possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest in a bid to discredit the Edo State Government and create chaos.

    “Residents of Ekpoma are assured that the situation is fully under control, as peace and normalcy continue to return to the town. The public is urged to ignore fake videos and unverified reports. They should remain calm and go about their lawful activities.”

  • MMA2 introduces structured slot system to improve terminal efficiency in 2026

    MMA2 introduces structured slot system to improve terminal efficiency in 2026

    Operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), have announced the introduction of a structured slot system designed to better align flight demand with terminal capacity.

    According to the Head of Aeronautics and Cargo Services and Acting Chief Operating Officer, Remi Jibodu, the new framework will enhance aircraft movement coordination, ease congestion during peak hours, improve on-time performance for airline partners, and support more effective planning by ground handling companies.

    Jibodu explained in an interview that the initiative forms part of BASL’s broader measures to reinforce operational reliability, elevate service standards, and sustain a consistent passenger experience during high-demand periods. He added that insights from the recent peak season will drive efficiency-focused upgrades in 2026.

    “In 2026, MMA2 will introduce a structured slot system to balance demand and capacity across the airport terminal,” he said.

    He noted that MMA2 recorded a successful year-end operational period, reflecting strong collaboration with airlines, ground handlers, and other service providers during the festive season. Throughout the high-traffic period, the terminal worked closely with partners to maintain seamless operations, prioritising passenger comfort, safety, and operational continuity.

    To minimise disruptions, the terminal provided extended operational hours, remaining open beyond scheduled shutdown times to accommodate late-night and delayed flights. These extensions were implemented alongside routine maintenance to uphold safety and infrastructure standards.

    Despite increased passenger traffic, Jibodu said MMA2 deployed additional operational and ground support measures, ensuring smooth passenger processing, efficient baggage handling, and minimal delays.

    Reviewing year-end performance, he stressed that the period reinforced the need for structured coordination among all stakeholders within the terminal environment. The slot system, he added, aligns with MMA2’s broader optimisation strategy and global best practices in apron and airside management.

    Beyond aeronautical operations, the terminal recorded strong performance in non-aeronautical services.

    Acting COO and Head of Space and Premises Management, Kola Bamigboye, said 2025 was marked by innovation and improvements across customer-focused services.

    “From retail and concession management to enhanced passenger amenities, our objective has been to deliver a convenient and engaging terminal environment. We are well-positioned to sustain this momentum in 2026,” Bamigboye stated.

    He added that security and passenger-support systems also improved. Enhanced CCTV infrastructure aided the recovery and return of several lost items, earning positive feedback from passengers.

    MMA2 also maintained an active customer experience email channel during the festive period, ensuring swift acknowledgment and resolution of complaints.

    As operations stabilise in the New Year, the terminal plans to consolidate recent gains and deepen collaboration with airlines, ground handlers, regulators, and other service providers.

    MMA2 said it remains committed to operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and sustained stakeholder engagement.

    According to BASL, these measures position MMA2 for a strong and coordinated operational year in 2026, reaffirming its status as a dependable aviation hub and a model for private-sector-led terminal management in Nigeria.

  • Nigeria produces 18.12mb/d in 11 months, says NUPRC 

    Nigeria produces 18.12mb/d in 11 months, says NUPRC 

    The total crude oil and condensate Nigeria produced was 18.12million barrels per day (mb/d) as at November, 2025, The Nation learnt.

    This was contained in the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) document titled: “Crude oil and condensate production 2025.”

    Although December 2025 output was yet to be recorded at press time, the average daily out from January to November was 1.64mb/d.

    According to the document, the total crude was15.98mb/d while total condensate was 2.14mb/d.

    In the 11 months under review, the average crude production was 1.45mb/d while average condensate output was 190,000b/d.

    NUPRC said the crude oil and condensate production was as follows: January 1.73mb/d, February 1.73mb/d, March1.69mb/d, April 1.68mb/d, May1.65mb/d, June 1.69mb/d, July 1.71mb/d, August 1.63mb/d, September 1.58mb/d, October 1.59mb/d, and November 1.59mb/d.

    For only crude oil breakdown, the document said the output was as follows: January 1.53mb/d, February 1.46mb/d, March 1.40mb/d, April 1.48mb/d, May 1.45mb/d, June 1.50mb/d, July 1.50mb/d, August 1.43mb/d, September 1.38mb/d, October 1.42mb/d, and November 1.43mb/d.

    The average production quota the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) approved for Nigeria was 1.5mb/d of crude oil.

    In November, Nigeria’s crude oil output was 96 per cent of the quota being 1.43mb/d.

    The period under review was an experience of opening up of shut-in oil wells and relative peaceful atmosphere in the Niger Delta region.

    There were also however moments of shutdown for routine maintenance and explosion on the Escravos Lagos Pipeline Line (ESPL). 

  • I can’t speak, walk well again after surgery complications – Toyin Lawani 

    I can’t speak, walk well again after surgery complications – Toyin Lawani 

    Celebrity fashion designer, Toyin Lawani, has spoken out about her experience at a Lagos-based hospital, alleging complications following a surgical procedure.

    Lawani shared her ordeal on Instagram, stating she visited the hospital for spine surgery but ended up with lung infection and lost use of her legs after spending almost N100 million.

    The mother of three is threatening to sue, claiming the hospital mismanaged her health.

    She shared updates on her condition, including multiple surgeries and ongoing treatment in the UK.

    Lawani wrote in part, “Your cup is finally full, shebi I told you people I don’t have your time yet. Don’t worry just wait for me. I’m coming.

    “You go spend close to 100m for hospital & them go still mismanage your health. They thought I was joking when I said I was going to sue, but I said they should just wait first when I’m stronger, I will tell my story, Still suffering the consequences from the hospital right now na another thing u go find go there, na another thing dem go carry put for ur hand. I kept asking myself why i did my spine surgery implant in Nigeria.

    “Till today I still can’t speak or walk well. I had complications and started bleeding in my lungs. Had to be taken back into the theatre the next day to reoperate again, before i know i stopped breathing, They had to puncture my lungs and destroyed my vocal cords.

    “When I lost the use of my two legs after i was sent home & i ended up back in that hospital again, I had to call the ent doc in UK. He then told them to operate for the 3rd time to take the tracheostomy tube out from my lungs and see if i can breathe myself,

    “Wo after that i was on next flight to uk with my family. When i got here, the doctors told me i had to do another surgery again & said i had infection in my lungs & they showed me the big lumps. Still in hospital in & out till date due to this. They won’t even care if its their mismanagement, you will still pay.”

  • CAF opens disciplinary probe over aftermath of Nigeria’s victory over Algeria

    CAF opens disciplinary probe over aftermath of Nigeria’s victory over Algeria

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a disciplinary investigation following violent scenes that erupted after Nigeria’s 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Marrakech.

    Although Nigeria sealed qualification for the semi-finals, the aftermath of the encounter descended into chaos on the pitch and in surrounding areas of the stadium.

    At full-time, several Algerian players confronted referee Issa Sy and his assistants over disputed decisions, surrounding the officiating crew in a heated standoff. 

    Security officials were forced to intervene to prevent the situation from escalating into physical confrontation between the two teams.

    The tension spilled into the stands, where visibly frustrated supporters of Algeria reportedly attempted to breach security barriers and vandalised parts of the stadium before stewards managed to restore order.

    More troubling incidents were reported in the mixed zone reserved for journalists. According to multiple accounts, some Algerian reporters allegedly verbally and physically assaulted Moroccan journalists, raising serious concerns about safety in restricted and controlled media areas.

    CAF, speaking through reports cited by Africa Soccer, confirmed it has begun reviewing official submissions from match officials, security personnel, and media representatives involved in the incident.

    Disciplinary measures are expected in the coming days, with the outcome likely to serve as a major test of CAF’s commitment to maintaining discipline, protecting participants, and preserving the integrity of the continent’s premier football tournament.

  • Brentford sign Nigerian teenager from Club Brugge

    Brentford sign Nigerian teenager from Club Brugge

    Brentford have completed the signing of highly rated teenager Kaye Furo from Belgian Pro League side Club Brugge.

    Furo, the son of former Nigeria international, Furo Iyenemi, has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract with the Bees. The transfer remains subject to international clearance and the granting of a work permit.

    The 18-year-old forward featured eight times for Club Brugge this season across the UEFA Champions League, Belgian Pro League and Belgian Cup, registering one goal and one assist.

    Brentford head coach Keith Andrews expressed confidence in the youngster’s potential, describing him as a long-term investment for the club.

    “Kaye is someone we have tracked for a while that we are really excited about bringing to the club,” Andrews told Brentford’s official website.

    “His attributes are ones that I like and feel we can develop within the environment we have created. I have no doubt he will be a big player for us.”

    Eligible to represent Belgium and Nigeria at international level, Furo has already featured for Belgium across multiple youth categories, from under-15 to under-21 level.

    The move underlines Brentford’s continued focus on recruiting and developing young talent with long-term upside.

  • Eagles hungry to make amends for last AFCON – Ajayi

    Eagles hungry to make amends for last AFCON – Ajayi

    Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi has declared Nigeria’s overriding objective is to lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy as the team prepares for a crucial semi-final showdown with Morocco.

    Nigeria, three-time AFCON champions, will take on hosts Morocco on Wednesday night in Rabat, with a place in the final at stake.

    Speaking with Footy Africa, the Nigeria defender—who plays his club football with Hull City—said the squad is driven by the desire to atone for the disappointment of their last AFCON final defeat to Côte d’Ivoire.

    “The ambition is there, the goal is the same,” Ajayi said. “We know how painful it was to not go all the way the last time, and we’re looking to make amends for that.

    “Like I said, we’ve still got a semi-final to do it, and we’re really hungry, ready, and focused to make sure we fulfil the ambition.”

    Ajayi also stressed that the Super Eagles remain intent on improving as the tournament reaches its decisive stages.

    “We can always improve. No performance is perfect, and whatever we need to fix, we can do that on the training field before the next game,” he added.

    Wednesday’s clash promises to be a high-stakes encounter as Nigeria aim to move one step closer to reclaiming continental glory at the Africa Cup of Nations.

  • BREAKING: 95 princes, princesses indicate interest in stool of Awujale

    BREAKING: 95 princes, princesses indicate interest in stool of Awujale

    A total of 95 princes and princesses of Fusengbuwa Ruling House have indicated interest in the stool of Awujale of Ijebuland.

    The Olori Ebi of Fusengbuwa Ruling House who is also Otunba Jadiara, Lateef Owoyemi disclosed this today at the commencement of Nomination Meeting of the  held at Bisi Rodipe Hall, GRA , Ijebu Ode.

    Other leaders of the Ruling House at the meeting included Deputy Olori Ebi, Otunba Ajidagba, Chairman, Chief Fassy Yusuf among others.

    Otunba Owoyemi, who is a former ICAN President, told the meeting that the names of those who scaled the first hurdle would be forwarded to the Afobajes.

    He said the Afobajes would pick one of the candidates as the next Awujale and forward his name to the Ogun State Government.

    He those in disagreement with the exercise can channel their grievances to the government.

    Details shortly…

  • Ikeja residents laud council vice chairman Omisore over yuletide food support

    Ikeja residents laud council vice chairman Omisore over yuletide food support

    Residents of Alausa in Ikeja Local Government have applauded the Vice Chairman of the council, Abisola Omisore, for his Yuletide food distribution initiative.

    The exercise, which commenced on December 23, 2025, and concluded on January 11, provided food items to hundreds of households across the community.

    Beneficiaries of the programme, which featured the distribution of bags of rice and cooking oil, described the initiative as a reflection of the council’s commitment to residents’ welfare.

    One of the recipients, Mrs. Omolola Famiwaye, expressed appreciation to the vice chairman, noting that the scale of the distribution demonstrated genuine concern for the community.

    “This is commendable. Only someone with sincere intentions would do this. We are talking about 5,000 bags of rice and many gallons of cooking oil distributed so far. We thank our Vice Chairman. God bless him and our leaders in Ward B for their efforts to improve residents’ lives,” she said.

    Another beneficiary, Mr. Taiwo Oladipupo, a septuagenarian, also expressed gratitude, stating that the food items would sustain many families for weeks.

    Similarly, Miss Aishat Abiodun, a student, thanked Omisore for extending support to residents during the festive season.

    “I am grateful for the food items.These will last me for some weeks in school” she said.

    Speaking during the distribution, Omisore said that the food distribution reflected the council’s administration commitment to the welfare of residents.

    “We  recognise that many households are facing so much economic pressure, so this intervention is a practical step to support families and show that the local government remains responsive and compassionate.

    “This exercise reflects our administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Ikeja LGA.

    “This initiative is guided by the belief that leadership is not about position, but about service to the people.

    “This intervention  may not solve all problems, it represents our resolve to stand with our communities and ensure that relief reaches those who need it most,”he said

  • How Funke Akindele made over N6bn at Nigerian box office in five years

    How Funke Akindele made over N6bn at Nigerian box office in five years

    Renowned actress, filmmaker, and producer Funke Akindele has reinforced her position as one of the most commercially successful figures in Nigeria’s film industry, recording an unparalleled run of box office successes over the past five years.

    According to industry box office figures, Akindele has grossed over N6 billion in the last five years, with a string of hit films that have captivated local audiences.

    Her commercial rise gained momentum in 2020 with the release of “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” which grossed over N636 million nationwide.

    Akindele’s subsequent releases have consistently broken records, cementing her status as a dependable box office force.

    “Battle on Buka Street” (2022) earned approximately N668 million, while “A Tribe Called Judah” (2023) crossed the N1 billion mark, grossing an estimated N1.4 billion.

    In 2024, Akindele surpassed her previous record with “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” which generated nearly N1.88 billion, making it the highest-grossing Nollywood film of all time.

    Her latest release, “Behind the Scenes” (2025), has earned over N1.7 billion, emerging as the top domestic film of the year.

    With multiple billion-naira titles to her name, Akindele occupies three of the top four positions on the list of Nigeria’s highest-grossing films.