The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Lagos showcases public-private partnership as a model for security funding

    Lagos showcases public-private partnership as a model for security funding

    The Lagos state government has projected the Lagos State Security Trust Fund as a viable model of public-private partnership in security funding, saying sustained collaboration with corporate donors has strengthened security governance and operational effectiveness across the state.

    The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Fund, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, made this known in a New Year statement in which he commended donors and corporate partners for their support throughout 2025.

    Ogunsan said the contributions received over the period went beyond financial assistance, reflecting trust, shared responsibility, and collective commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and the economic stability of Lagos.

    According to him, the partnership between the government and the private sector has enabled the Fund to strengthen the capacity of security agencies, improve logistics, and respond more effectively to evolving security needs across the state.

    The statement, issued on behalf of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Board of Trustees, management, and staff of the Fund, described the public-private collaboration as a sustainable approach to security funding in Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre.

    Read Also: Lagos fire: Family sympathises with victims, seeks building assessment

    The statement noted that the Governor has acknowledged the role of corporate organisations and donors in supporting security architecture in Lagos, noting that the partnership has delivered measurable impact and positioned the state as a reference point for collaborative security funding.

    Ogunsan said the Fund would, in 2026, focus on consolidating gains recorded in the past year, deepening existing partnerships, and attracting new donors who share the vision of a secure, resilient, and investor-friendly Lagos.

    He added that emerging security realities require innovation, sustained support, and continued cooperation between the public and private sectors.

    “We are confident that through continued collaboration, we can sustain the gains recorded and respond effectively to emerging security challenges in the year ahead,” he said.

  • Gwarzo praises Shugaba’s service to nation at 45

    Gwarzo praises Shugaba’s service to nation at 45

    The President of the MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has congratulated the Chief Security Officer to the President, Usman Shugaba, on his 45th birthday, describing him as a dedicated and loyal security professional.

    Gwarzo conveyed the message in a personal statement where he commended Shugaba’s distinguished career in the Nigerian Police Force.

    According to him, Shugaba’s professional achievements reflect his discipline, integrity and unwavering commitment to national service.

    Read Also: Gwarzo mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, condoles family, Bauchi Govt

    “Your professionalism and sense of duty are evident in your recent promotion to the rank of Commissioner of Police,” Gwarzo said.

    He prayed for Shugaba’s continued success in service to the nation and wished him good health, prosperity and many more years of impactful contribution to Nigeria’s security architecture.

  • AFCON ’25: Things to know about Nigeria vs Mozambique

    AFCON ’25: Things to know about Nigeria vs Mozambique

    After a flawless group-stage campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Super Eagles will look to sustain their momentum when they face Mozambique in Monday’s Round of 16 clash in Fes.

    The Super Eagles go into the tie as favourites, having won all three group matches, but the Mambas have already demonstrated they can trouble more established opposition.

    A win over Gabon, along with spirited performances in defeats to hosts Ivory Coast and Cameroon, highlighted Mozambique’s ability to compete with Africa’s traditional heavyweights.

    Nigeria, African champions for the last time in 2013, will take confidence from their strong start to the tournament and what appears to be a favourable last-16 draw. With belief firm in Éric Sékou Chelle’s camp, the Super Eagles are targeting another decisive step toward ending their long wait for continental glory.

    Midfielders Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman have been among Nigeria’s standout performers so far, providing creativity and drive. However, defensive concerns linger, and Mozambique is expected to exploit any weaknesses through Geny Catamo of Sporting CP.

    Read Also: AFCON 16th Bassey, Chukwueze tip Super  Eagles to fly over Mambas

    Catamo has been one of Mozambique’s key attacking threats, converting a penalty in their 3-2 win over Gabon before scoring a fine goal in a narrow 2-1 defeat to Cameroon.

    The winner of Monday’s encounter will advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo. A potential meeting with DR Congo would revive memories of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff final, where Nigeria suffered a painful defeat.

    Match Details:

    Date: Monday, January 5

    Kick-off: 20:00 WAT (21:00 CAT, 20:00 local time, 19:00 GMT)

    Venue: Fez Stadium

    How to watch: Live on SuperSport in Nigeria and South Africa

  • Udenwa: I will no longer contest for elective position

    Udenwa: I will no longer contest for elective position

    …urges politicians to avoid gossip, embrace clean politics

    Former Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, has advised members of his political structure, the Redemption group, and other politicians aspiring to elective offices to shun gossip and backstabbing, warning that such conduct could damage their political futures in Imo State and beyond.

    Udenwa, who governed the state from 1999 to 2007, stressed the importance of integrity and clean politics, noting that negative practices could undermine ambitions to seek elective positions at both state and national levels.

    Speaking while hosting members of the Redemption political structure in Owerri, the former governor urged them to believe in themselves and pursue their goals through honest means.

    “Whatever you want to be, believe in yourself, but don’t get to any position through gossip and backstabbing,” he said.

    Udenwa recalled that the Redemption group played a key role in his emergence as governor in 1998, adding that many of the achievements recorded during his administration were a product of collective effort and teamwork within the group.

    He disclosed that he has no intention of contesting any future elective office, explaining that he has deliberately stepped aside to allow younger politicians to seek leadership positions.

    However, he assured members that he would continue to offer guidance and play a fatherly role in supporting their political aspirations.

    Read Also: National secretary position: Mbah, Wabara, Udenwa, others back southeast PDP’s exit threat

    The former governor also expressed appreciation to those who commended his performance in office, attributing much of his success to the dedication and support of the Redemption group.

    He said, “People praised my administration, but it’s not my making, but the teamwork of all of us; we had enough principles that kept us going. My administration achieved success through participatory democracy, which is what I think Redemption meant.

    “Most of you want to play a greater role in the future, but I don’t want to contest any longer. Many of you are still young, but you have to be purposeful. I want you to keep redemption alive and take it to the next level. We were underdogs when it was established. I’m happy today that we’re a force to reckon with in the State,” he said.

    He advised Redemption members not to fight, quarrel, or criticize anyone, saying, “We are not a political party. Many Redemption members belong to different political parties – be it the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), or APGA. The most important thing is to be true to yourselves as Redemption members.”

  • Paul Enenche: I don’t use Church funds for personal expenses

    Paul Enenche: I don’t use Church funds for personal expenses

    Pastor Paul Enenche of Dunamis International Gospel Centre has denied using church funds for personal gain, stating that he has never accessed the church’s financial accounts or used proceeds from church materials for personal items.

    Speaking during a church service, he emphasised that his needs are met through divine provision, not church resources.

    Enenche explained that proceeds from his books, CDs, and other materials are not used for personal expenses, including clothing or accessories.

    He stressed that church offerings are reserved for ministry purposes only.

    The cleric urged believers to prioritise spiritual growth, service to God, and commitment to the church, rather than focusing on material possessions or public perceptions.

    He encouraged Christians to live with purpose, aligning their lives with values that reflect faith, sacrifice, and dedication to the kingdom of God.

    Read Also: Deborah Paul Enenche opens up on her weight gain struggle

    In his sermon, Enenche said, “Many people don’t know our secret. Some people will think, oh, this suit is wearing now is church money. This trouser is church money. This watch is, ah, church money. That is the mumuciousness of sense. The church’s checkbook has not been in our possession from day one till now. The CD that is sold in this church. I have not used one naira of it to buy a tie. Seed of destiny, monthly devotion, I write it.

    “Not one naira of it has been used to buy socks. How many more church offerings? If the one that you can say is legitimately yours. God, the things we need, he supplies.

    “He supplies them like that, directly. I gave about 200, and something suits me in one day. Let’s stop living for things. Let’s stop. Let’s start living for God. Let’s start living in reality. Let’s start living for what matters. Let’s start living for the kingdom. And you will come to the point where they think that people are looking for. They die after you. They rush after you.”

  • Osun LG workers resume after 11-month strike amid heavy security presence

    Osun LG workers resume after 11-month strike amid heavy security presence

    Local government workers in Osun State on Monday resumed duty across council secretariats after an 11-month strike, with heavy security deployment observed at various local government offices.

    The Nation recalls that members of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) embarked on the industrial action on February 16, 2025, following a dispute between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over control of the local government councils.

    A tour of several council secretariats by our correspondent showed a strong security presence, with police patrol vehicles stationed at the entrances of the councils to maintain law and order.

    The reinstated APC chairmen welcomed the returning workers, assuring them of their readiness to collaborate in strengthening governance at the grassroots level.

    Local government areas visited by The Nation included Olorunda, Osogbo, Orolu, Irepodun, Boluwaduro, Boripe, and Obokun.

    In Osogbo, the Vice Chairman, Rasak Latona, received the workers and urged them to work with the council leadership to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda, while criticising the prolonged strike action by NULGE.

    Latona confirmed that more than 300 workers had resumed duties at the council. “So far, so good. It has been peaceful and well-coordinated. On arrival, we could see security personnel at the entrance checking those who are supposed to be in, so there will be no trouble,” he said.

    Read Also: Police warn politicians against sabotage of Osun LG workers’ resumption

    Speaking with journalists, the Osun State President of NULGE, Dr. Kehinde Ogungbangbe, expressed satisfaction over the resumption of work by union members across the state.

    However, he accused the police of bias, alleging that security operatives allowed APC council chairmen into the secretariats despite earlier warnings that their presence would not be tolerated.

    He said, “To my utmost dismay, today I discovered that it was the Police that were opening the gate for the politicians to enter the local government. The control crisis still linger and the case is in court, so politicians ought to stay away from the LGAs.”

    Speaking on behalf of the APC council executives, Chief Adegoke Ogunsola denied police bias but noted that security operatives only backed legality.

    “We have been at the council since February 2025, and the keys of the secretariat have been with us. We opened the door for the returning workers today, and the police checked all those who went inside the council today.

    “The NULGE executives were at the gate to identify their colleagues without identity cards. Some of our supporters who went to the secretariat with us were sent back because they had no business there. We are at the council, and we are operating autonomously.”

  • You’re a nation builder: Gwarzo hails Abba at 63

    You’re a nation builder: Gwarzo hails Abba at 63

    The President of the MAAUN Group of Universities, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has congratulated Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, on the his 63rd birthday, describing him as a committed nation builder with a clear vision for progress.

    Gwarzo conveyed this message in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Sunday. 

    He praised Yusuf’s leadership style and achievements, noting that his performance within just two years in office has been both credible and commendable.

    According to him, the Governor’s achievements are a clear testimony to his vision, dedication, and unwavering focus on moving Kano State forward. He emphasized that Governor Yusuf’s commitment to good governance, people-oriented policies, and sustainable development is evident across critical sectors of the state.

    Read Also: Gwarzo mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, condoles family, Bauchi Govt

    “Your clear vision and steadfast commitment to the people of Kano are visible to all. In just two years, you have recorded remarkable achievements that speak volumes of your passion for service and your love for the state,” Professor Gwarzo stated. “This is true patriotism and genuine nation building.”

    He further acknowledged the Governor’s efforts in restoring public confidence in governance and inspiring hope among the people through purposeful leadership and inclusive policies.

    “On behalf of my family and the entire MAAUN Group of Universities,I warmly congratulate you on your 63rd birthday. I wish you good health, wisdom, and many more years of impactful service to Kano State and the nation at large,” he stated. 

  • PAP Administrator Otuaro attends Oporoza community New Year celebration

    PAP Administrator Otuaro attends Oporoza community New Year celebration

    The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dennis Otuaro, has told Nigerians to prepare for a year of economic progress and stability. 

    Otuaro spoke after attending the New Year celebration of the Oporoza community on Friday. 

    The Oporoza community, the traditional headquarter of Gbaramatu kingdom, holds its New Year celebration annually. 

    Speaking after this year’s edition, Dennis said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is moving Nigeria in the right direction. 

    Read Also: Okowa, Otuaro meet, pray for Delta’s peace, unity and sustained devt

    He added that this year, many Nigerians will reap the benefits of the administration economic and political policies. 

    “2026 will be a great year for our country across board. From economy to peace, we will record tremendous progress thanks to the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he noted.

  • FULL LIST: Six worst Manchester United managers in history

    FULL LIST: Six worst Manchester United managers in history

    Manchester United’s history is defined by dominance, trophies, and iconic leadership. However, not every managerial reign at Old Trafford has lived up to those lofty standards. Using win percentage, results, and historical context, these managers are widely regarded as the least successful in the club’s history, based on available records and long-term impact rather than reputation alone.

    Following the sack of Ruben Amorim, below is a detailed look at the Manchester United managers whose tenures statistically rank among the worst.

    1. Jack Robson (1914–1921)

    Approx. win rate: ~29.5%

    Lowest win percentage in club history (depending on record source)

    Jack Robson’s reign remains one of the bleakest periods in Manchester United’s existence. His time in charge was heavily affected by World War I, which disrupted English football and limited squad stability. Nevertheless, United’s performances were poor even by the standards of the era.

    –          United struggled defensively and offensively

    –          Relegation battles were common

    –          Club lacked tactical identity

    While external factors played a role, Robson’s win percentage remains the lowest ever recorded for a permanent United manager, cementing his place in this list.

    2. Lal Hilditch (1926–1927)

    Approx. win rate: ~30.3%

    Very short tenure with extremely poor results

    Hilditch’s spell in charge was brief and unsuccessful. United failed to show progress in either league form or performances, and his inability to stabilize results quickly led to his dismissal.

    –          Poor league position

    –          Little tactical impact

    –          No significant wins to offset losses

    His tenure is often forgotten due to its brevity, but statistically, it stands among the club’s weakest.

    3. Herbert Bamlett (1927–1931)

    Approx. win rate: ~31–32%

    Defensive instability and heavy goals conceded

    Bamlett inherited a struggling side and was unable to correct its flaws. His United teams were especially vulnerable defensively, conceding goals at an alarming rate.

    –          Weak defensive organization

    –          Frequent heavy defeats

    –          Declining league finishes

    Although his reign lasted longer than others on this list, the lack of improvement over four seasons ultimately defined his failure.

    4. Wilf McGuinness (1969–1970)

    Approx. win rate: ~36.7–36.8%

    Failed to sustain success after Sir Matt Busby

    McGuinness had the unenviable task of replacing Sir Matt Busby. Young and inexperienced at the top level, he struggled to command authority over a squad still shaped by Busby’s influence.

    –          Inconsistent results

    –          Loss of dressing-room confidence

    –          Busby forced to return in an advisory role

    Though not disastrous in isolation, McGuinness’ reign marked a sharp decline from United’s previous standards, making it one of the most disappointing transitions in club history.

    5. Frank O’Farrell (1971–1972)

    Approx. win rate: ~37%

    Short, ineffective spell that preceded relegation trouble

    Read Also: BREAKING: Manchester United sack Amorim as manager

    O’Farrell’s tenure began with promise but quickly unraveled. United’s form collapsed, and the team drifted dangerously close to the relegation zone.

    –          Poor league run

    –          Defensive frailties

    –          Loss of momentum and belief

    He was dismissed midway through the 1972–73 season, with Tommy Docherty later taking over to rebuild the club.

    6. Ruben Amorim (2024–2026)

    Approx. win rate: ~36–39.7%

    Lowest win percentage of the post-Ferguson era

    Amorim’s spell is widely viewed as one of the most damaging in modern Manchester United history. Despite high expectations, results failed to improve, and performances deteriorated across competitions.

    One of United’s worst league finishes in decades

    –          Tactical inconsistency

    –          Poor results against both top and lower-table sides

    Statistically, Amorim recorded the lowest win percentage of any United manager in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, leading to his dismissal after 14 months in charge.

  • Anthony Joshua mourns as close friends are laid to rest in London

    Anthony Joshua mourns as close friends are laid to rest in London

    Two close friends and key members of Anthony Joshua’s team, Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele, have been buried in London following a fatal road accident in Nigeria on December 29, 2025.

    The remains of Ghami and Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom, where a funeral prayer service was held on January 4, 2026, at the London Central Mosque.

    Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was his personal trainer and a trusted confidant. Both men were regarded as integral figures within Joshua’s camp, and their deaths have sent shockwaves through the boxing community.

    Joshua, who sustained minor injuries in the accident, was visibly emotional as he attended the burial at Hendon Cemetery, paying his final respects alongside family members, friends, and supporters. Thousands had earlier gathered at the mosque to honour the late duo.

    The 36-year-old boxer was a passenger in the back of a black SUV that collided with a stationary truck on a major highway near Lagos.

    Read Also: Tears, tributes at Anthony Joshua’s friends’ funeral prayer in London

    While Joshua survived the crash, both Ghami and Ayodele lost their lives. Joshua spent several days in the hospital before being discharged on New Year’s Eve.

    Breaking his silence on Sunday, Joshua shared a post on social media after returning to the UK, publishing a photo with his mother and members of the bereaved families, accompanied by the caption: “My Brother’s Keeper.”

    Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that the driver of the vehicle, 46-year-old Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been arraigned at the Sagamu Magistrate Court. The case has been adjourned until January 20, with charges including causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, and driving without a valid licence.