The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Two brothers die in Ebonyi motorcycle crash 

    Two brothers die in Ebonyi motorcycle crash 

    Tragedy struck in Ebonyi State on New Year’s Day as two brothers from Obegu-aba, Ozibo in Ebonyi Local Government Area, were crushed to death in a road accident.

    The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. on the Obegu-aba/Ogbaga road in Abakaliki, the state capital. 

    According to sources, the brothers were riding a motorcycle when a high-speed Toyota Corolla with an Ebonyi State government registration number (Ebonyi 241-EBGH) collided with them.

    The crash was severe, resulting in one brother losing a leg and the other losing a hand. The motorcycle they were riding was completely destroyed.

    It was reported that the driver of the Corolla fled the scene, apparently out of fear of being lynched, leaving residents of the area in mourning.

    A team of policemen from the state command later arrived, evacuated the bodies, and impounded the vehicle.

    Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu could not be reached for comment at the time of this report.

  • Let’s build a safer, united Nigeria in 2026, Ogundoyin tells Nigerians

    Let’s build a safer, united Nigeria in 2026, Ogundoyin tells Nigerians

    The Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has extended heartfelt New Year greetings to Nigerians, state legislators nationwide, and his constituents as 2026 begins.

    In his goodwill message, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin expressed optimism for a more peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria, urging every citizen to be an agent of hope, unity, and national progress in the coming year.

    “2026 presents another opportunity for us as a people and as a nation to renew our commitment to peace, justice, equity, and sustainable development. Let us build bridges, heal divides, and reinforce the spirit of nationhood,” he said.

    The Conference Chairman congratulated all State Houses of Assembly for their legislative achievements in 2025 and called on his colleagues to remain steadfast in promoting democratic values, good governance, and the rule of law.

    “As lawmakers, we must continue to enact people-centered laws, exercise effective oversight, and be true representatives of our constituents’ aspirations,” Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin added.

    He also thanked his colleagues in the Conference of Speakers for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to fostering synergy among state legislatures for collective progress.

    Addressing the people of Ibarapa East and Oyo State, he expressed gratitude for their unwavering support and promised greater legislative impact and developmental projects in the new year.

    “Let 2026 be a year of positive action, resilience, and collaboration. Together, we can build a stronger, more united Nigeria,” Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin concluded.

  • Fubara to Rivers: ignore renewed sounds of war 

    Fubara to Rivers: ignore renewed sounds of war 

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reacted to a renewed political crisis in the state, appealing to residents to ignore the fresh sounds of war.

    The governor called on the people to remain calm amid rising political tension, saying  his administration would not be distracted by the development.

    He said that prayer, restraint, and peaceful engagement and not confrontation would continue to define the government’s approach to leadership in 2026.

    Fubara spoke during the New Year crossover service at the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House, Port Harcourt.

    He described the first two years of his administration as the period marked by turbulence and internal challenges that slowed the pace of development.

    The governor said despite the difficulties, his administration pulled through delivering people-oriented projects and programmes.

     He expressed optimism that 2026 would usher in a new phase of stability, renewed focus, and accelerated development.

    The governor called on Rivers people to rise above political noise and intimidation and not to be distracted by threats and provocations.

    He said, “We do not have the instrument of war; the only thing we have is our knees, and we will continue to pray to God. Do not be troubled by the sounds of war you are hearing.”

    Fubara said the state was entering the new year with strength, hope, and the assurance that those, who trusted in God would not be put to shame.

    The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to peace and political maturity in Rivers State, pledging that any support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections would be anchored on dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect, not coercion or threats.

    He thanked the people of the state and loyal supporters of his administration for their steadfastness and courage.

    He noted that their resilience had helped the government remain focused and stable despite sustained pressure.

    In his sermon, the Government House Chaplain, Pastor Ogan Barasin, called for total obedience to God in 2026.

    Barasin declared 2026 a year of visible and tangible miracles and offered prayers and prophetic declarations for peace, progress, and enduring stability in Rivers State. 

  • Omosehin celebrates wife, highlights women’s role in nation building

    Omosehin celebrates wife, highlights women’s role in nation building

    The Lisa of Osooro Kingdom, Dele Omosehin, has praised women as the backbone of strong communities and key drivers of national development while celebrating the birthday of his wife, Lynda Omosehin.

    Speaking in Okitipupa during the celebration, Omosehin emphasized that the strength, stability, and progress of any society are closely tied to the roles women play within families, communities, and the nation at large.

    He noted that women are central to shaping values, nurturing leadership, and driving grassroots development in Nigeria. The royal father added that empowering women is essential for sustainable development, highlighting their role in promoting integrity, unity, empathy, and social responsibility as fundamental to enduring and thriving communities.

    He said, “Women are the quiet force behind many of the successes we celebrate today. Their contributions often happen away from the spotlight, yet their impact is profound and lasting.”

    Omosehin described his wife as a woman of purpose, grace, and compassion whose life reflects the ideals of service and humanity he associates with women. 

    He noted that her commitment to family life, community support, and humanitarian causes has continued to inspire many within and beyond Okitipupa and Irele Federal Constituency.

    He added that Chief Mrs. Omosehin has consistently supported initiatives aimed at uplifting women and young people, often working quietly to create meaningful impact at the grassroots.

    According to him, her life underscores the importance of women’s leadership not only in public spaces but also within homes and communities where values are formed.

    The monarch disclosed that a modest celebration has been planned for February, when family, friends, and well-wishers will gather to honour her life, values, and contributions to humanity.

    He, however, called on leaders, institutions, and stakeholders at all levels to prioritise women’s empowerment, noting that national progress remains difficult to achieve without deliberate investment in women and the roles they play in shaping society.

  • Tinubu’s tax reforms critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic stability — Osun APC leader 

    Tinubu’s tax reforms critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic stability — Osun APC leader 

    A leader of All Progressives Congress(APC) in Osun State, Chief Ayodeji Olaiya, has lauded President Bola Tinubu over the implementation of the tax reform in 2026, saying “step is critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.”

    The APC leader from Osun Central Senatorial District in his New Year message added that the economic reforms are poised to bring prosperity and a brighter future.

    Olaiya congratulated Nigerians on the successful completion of the year 2025, describing it as a period marked by resilience, collective sacrifice and renewed national hope. 

    He noted that 2026 comes with strong prospects for stability, growth, and improved governance across the country with the reforms of President Tinubu. 

    According to him, “Despite economic and social challenges encountered in the outgone year, Nigerians remained steadfast and optimistic, demonstrating faith in the nation’s democratic institutions.”

    He commended President Tinubu for initiating far-reaching tax reforms, which he described as bold, strategic, and critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.

    He said, “The tax reform initiatives would, in the long run, expand the tax base, promote fairness, encourage compliance, and reduce overreliance on borrowing. The reforms would empower government to invest more effectively in infrastructure, education, healthcare and social welfare programmes.

    “Our president deserves commendation for his bold tax reform initiatives. These reforms are strategic and long overdue and they are aimed at correcting structural weaknesses in our economic and revenue systems. When fully implemented, the tax reforms will transform the economy, improve transparency, and provide government with the resources needed to deliver critical infrastructure and social services to Nigerians.”

    Speaking on the political direction of Osun State, Olaiya urged citizens and residents to support the candidature of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) ahead of the August 8, 2026 governorship election.

    He described Oyebamiji as a seasoned administrator with the capacity to deliver people-oriented governance and sustain progressive ideals in the state.

  • 2026: Oborevwori salutes Deltans, reaffirms commitment to more developments

    2026: Oborevwori salutes Deltans, reaffirms commitment to more developments

    • …as Delta monarch sues for peace, unity among Nigerians 

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has extended warm and heart-felt felicitations to Deltans as they usher in the Year 2026. 

    He expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty for His protection, grace and sustaining presence over the people and the state throughout the past year.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor described the New Year as a season of renewed hope, fresh beginnings and collective responsibility. 

    He urged citizens to draw strength from the lessons of the past and look forward to the future with optimism, courage and unity of purpose.

    The governor acknowledged the sacrifices, resilience and patience displayed by Deltans, noting that the modest but impactful gains recorded across key sectors of the state were made possible by the people’s enduring spirit, peaceful disposition and shared commitment to progress.

    Governor Oborevwori assured that the pains, hopes and aspirations of the people remained at the heart of his administration’s policies, reaffirming that in the New Year, government would deepen its focus on good governance, infrastructural renewal, job creation, youth empowerment, enhanced security and inclusive economic growth in line with the MORE Agenda.

    He called on all residents to continue to shun violence, embrace peaceful coexistence and uphold the values of hard work, tolerance and patriotism, stressing that enduring peace remained the strongest foundation upon which sustainable development, prosperity and social harmony thrives.

    The Governor appealed to political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration with the government, noting that the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Delta State must be pursued as a shared responsibility.

    Meanwhile, His Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, the Obi of Owa Kingdom, has urged Nigerians on peace, unity, and good neighbourliness, saying without them Nigeria’s dream of progress will remain out of reach in 2026.

    In his New Year message, the revered first-class monarch declared that only a united and secure nation could unlock genuine socio-economic and political development, insisting that division and insecurity are enemies of growth.

    The royal father, immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council (DSTRC) tasked those in power to act decisively by introducing bold, people-focused policies to ease the economic hardship facing Nigerians and return dignity to everyday life.

    Obi Efeizomor II hailed Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he called a standout performance in governance, applauding his delivery of visible dividends of democracy through infrastructure renewal, urban transformation, citizen empowerment, and disciplined resource management.

    Speaking to the traditional institution, the monarch issued a rallying cry to royal fathers across Delta State to stand united, stressing that only a common front will command public respect and safeguard the customs and traditions entrusted to them.

    He urged political leaders to be more patriotic, lead by example and show more dedication in the task of building a  more humane, egalitarian and workable nation.

    He tasked Nigerians not to  despair over the harsh economic situation in the country but look forward to a better and brighter  future.

    Reflecting on 2025, the Owa king urged Nigerians to continue to display greater resilience and doggedness in facing the challenges of nation building. 

    He advised Nigerian youths not to waver  in their faith in the country, saying that they should look up to the future with the determination to succeed in whatever field of human endeavour they find themselves.

    On insecurity, the monarch called on the Federal Government to cooperate with the  United States in the effort to decisively   tackle the intractable cases of insurgency, banditry and other forms of  criminal activities bedeviling the nation. 

    He commended the media  for living up to their constitutional responsibilities of being the watch dog of the nation,  urging them not to  relent on their role as the Fourth Estate of the realm.

  • 2026: Return Osun to progressive fold for genuine development—Ex-OSICOL MD 

    2026: Return Osun to progressive fold for genuine development—Ex-OSICOL MD 

    • …distribute food items to 10,000 households 

    The former Managing Director of Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), Dr Tunde Faleye, has called on residents of the state to return the All Progressives Congress (APC) to government in the August 2026 governorship election, saying only progressive leadership can deliver genuine and sustainable development.

    Faleye made the call on Thursday during the distribution of food items to about 10,000 households across Ijesaland, an initiative aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship during the festive season.

    Speaking at the event held in Ilesa, he said Osun residents should seize the opportunity of the 2026 election to align the state with what he described as mainstream development under the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He urged voters to make informed choices as the state heads into an election year, insisting that a change in leadership is necessary.

    According to him, it has become imperative to remove the incumbent administration, which he claimed has “practically mortgaged the state” through what he described as unfocused and visionless policies that have set Osun back since 2022.

    “The current administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke has failed the residents of the state as seen in its palpable mal-administration and malfeasance in handling critical sectors that have become moribund since its emergence.”

    The ex-OSICOL MD noted that “for the state to experience genuine and real development, thus the state must align with the government at the centre by returning Osun to progressive fold.”

    He eulogized the shift of allegiance by other states due to President Bola Tinubu’s policies, stating that “Osun shouldn’t be an exception.”

    “God has blessed us in the state, that we now have a beacon of hope, we now have a man that has the genuine care of the people at heart, by the special grace of God with the help of God and the help of party faithful, we have been able to have a candidate in person of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebanji popularly called AMBO.

    “As we all know, AMBO is APC candidate that would take Osun to the next level, he is experienced, he is exposed, he is a man with genuine concern for development and progress of the state. AMBO is learnerd and he has been able to work both in the private and public sectors which makes him to distinguish himself.”

    Speaking on the humanitarian gesture, he said “we will distribute food items to 10,000 households, if you look at the impressive turnout, the goes beyond politics but we extend the olive to many people particularly less privileged and downtrodden in Ijesaland”, he added. 

    A royal father, Aloringbon of Ilorigbo Agede-Ijesa, Oba Abiodun Esan Makanjuola lauded the founder and leadership of the Foundation for their consistency and commitment to human development. 

  • JUST IN: Ebonyi PDP 2023 governorship candidate resigns party membership

    JUST IN: Ebonyi PDP 2023 governorship candidate resigns party membership

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections in Ebonyi State, High Chief Chukwuma Odii, has resigned his membership of the party.

    Odii announced his decision in a resignation letter dated January 1, 2026, and addressed to the PDP Chairman of Amanator Ward, Isuachara, in Onicha Local Government Area of the state.

    He said the decision followed wide consultations with his family and close associates.

    The former governorship candidate expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the PDP for providing him the platform to contest the 2023 general election.

    According to the letter, “I write to officially inform you that, following wide consultation with my family and close associates, I have taken a considered decision to resign my membership of the PDP with immediate effect.

    “I wish to sincerely appreciate the leadership and members of the Party for the opportunity and platform provided for me, which I utilized in contesting as a Governorship candidate during the 2023 general election.

    “I remain grateful for the support, cooperation and goodwill extended to me throughout my engagement with the Party. 

    “Please, accept this letter as my formal notice of my resignation. I thank you once again for the cooperation and understanding during my time in the party.”

  • Makarfi urges unity, action on insecurity, economic hardship in New Year message

    Makarfi urges unity, action on insecurity, economic hardship in New Year message

    Former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has called on Nigerians to remain united and resilient as the country enters the year 2026, urging governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and economic hardship.

    In a New Year message, Makarfi said the outgoing year tested the patience and endurance of Nigerians amid rising economic challenges, insecurity, and widespread uncertainty across the country.

    He said the New Year offers an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen their collective resolve to confront the nation’s challenges together, stressing that unity and shared purpose remain critical to national progress.

    The former governor described Nigeria’s diversity in human and material resources as its greatest endowment, noting that when properly harnessed, it can rekindle hope and reinforce national cohesion.

    According to him, diversity should serve as a tool for mutual respect and sustained dialogue, enabling citizens to deploy their varied skills and expertise toward building a nation worthy of pride for present and future generations.

    Makarfi appealed to governments at all levels to scale up efforts aimed at decisively addressing all forms of insecurity, while also introducing policies to ease the economic burdens facing citizens.

    He prayed for a 2026 marked by renewed unity and peace, improved security, economic recovery, and greater opportunities, urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith and optimism for the country’s future.

  • Mercy Aigbe, Itele, other celebrities born on New Year’s Day

    Mercy Aigbe, Itele, other celebrities born on New Year’s Day

    As the world welcomed a New Year, several Nigerian celebrities joined the celebrations by marking their birthdays on January 1, 2026.

    The list of celebrities born on this day includes prominent Nollywood actors and actresses, as well as reality TV stars.

    On their Instagram pages to mark the occasion, the celebrities shared messages of gratitude and excitement for the year ahead.

    Ibrahim Yekini, also known as Itele, celebrated his birthday with a heartfelt post, reflecting on his journey and looking forward to new victories and global impact.

    He wrote, “Happy Birthday to me, Ibrahim Abiodun Bakare Yekini (Iteledicon). Today, January 1st, the universe welcomed a dreamer, a fighter, a creator, and a legend in the making. I celebrate not just another year of life, but every battle I survived, every vision I dared to believe, and every soul I’ve inspired through my craft.

    “From Nollywood to the world, my story is still being written — louder, bolder, greater. I am walking in purpose, crowned with grace, and backed by destiny. Here’s to new levels, new victories, new movies, and unstoppable blessings. Here’s to a year of global impact, deeper wisdom, and overflowing favor”.

    Moyo Lawal, a popular actress, who shared a picture on social media, reflected on her journey and looking forward to new adventures.

    She wrote, “Happy birthday Moyobaby. Gods favorite angel. Born to shine”.

    Mercy Aigbe, who turned 48, expressed gratitude for God’s grace and favor, declaring the new year one of alignment and answered prayers.

    She wrote, “Happy Birthday to me. Today, I’m grateful for God’s grace that sustained me, His mercy that covered me and His favor that carried me through every season. This past year reminded me that even when I didn’t understand, God was still intentional about me—protecting me, shaping me, and keeping me standing. As I step into this new chapter, I do so with hope and faith. Hope for healing, peace, and clarity. Faith that every God-given desire in my heart will find fulfillment in His perfect time.

    “I declare this new year one of alignment, answered prayers, divine favor, and quiet joy. Happy birthday to a woman still standing, still growing, and deeply grateful for God’s grace”.

    Reality TV star, Venita Akpofure, also announced her birthday on Thursday.

    The Big Brother Naija 2019 housemate wrote on Instagram, “Another year. Another chapter. Grateful for life, growth, and my a year PACKED full of so many FIRSTS! Speaking on Firsts, Come with me on this New Year’s journey.”

    Other notable celebrities celebrating their birthdays on New Year’s Day include Mustapha Sholagbade, Reality TV stars Nengi Hampson and Frodd.

    The celebrities’ social media posts were filled with messages of gratitude, hope, and excitement for the year ahead, as they celebrated another year of life and the opportunities that come with it.