Author: The Nation

  • Minister urges professionals to boost collaboration for national development

    Minister urges professionals to boost collaboration for national development

    The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has urged Nigerian professionals to deepen collaboration, strengthen mentorship and engage more constructively with government as a way of accelerating development in Sokoto State and across the country.

    Goronyo made the call in Sokoto while delivering the keynote address at the 3rd Annual General Meeting of the Sokoto Professionals Network, themed “Expanding Horizons, Strengthening Bonds.”

    He said the theme aptly reflects the realities and demands of Nigeria’s current development phase, stressing that professionals have a critical role to play in shaping the nation’s future.

    Addressing professionals and community leaders at the event, Goronyo described the AGM theme as timely and relevant. 

    According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Maryam Sanusi, the minister explained that “expanding horizons” speaks to growth in knowledge, innovation and global competitiveness, while “strengthening bonds” underscores the importance of unity, collaboration and shared responsibility.

    He encouraged professionals to leverage their expertise and networks to support sustainable development initiatives and contribute meaningfully to national progress through closer cooperation with both government and society.

    “In today’s interconnected world, progress is no longer driven by isolated efforts. It is driven by strong networks built on trust, professionalism, and a common vision,” Goronyo said.

    He stressed that professionals, including engineers, doctors, educators, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and technologists, remain central to nation-building, as their expertise shapes institutions, delivers infrastructure, and drives economic growth.

    According to him, Nigeria’s development trajectory depends largely on how effectively professionals translate knowledge into practical solutions and individual achievements into collective societal impact.

    He noted that platforms such as the Sokoto Professionals Network are critical for mentorship, policy engagement, and meaningful contributions to national and subnational development.

    Speaking on infrastructure, Goronyo described it as a major catalyst for economic and social transformation, explaining that roads, bridges, and transport corridors go beyond physical construction to enable commerce, education, healthcare delivery, security, and national integration.

    Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the quality, reach, and sustainability of infrastructure nationwide, while promoting professionalism, accountability, and local capacity in project execution.

    “Government alone cannot achieve these objectives without the support and expertise of organized professionals,” he said.

    Goronyo urged members of the Sokoto Professionals Network to strengthen bonds within and beyond the association, particularly between senior professionals and young graduates, between those at home and those in the diaspora, and between professionals and government institutions.

    He said strong professional bonds promote the exchange of ideas, build trust, and fast-track development, adding that a united and constructive professional voice can significantly influence policy formulation, innovation, and community development.

    As deliberations continued at the AGM, the Minister challenged members to deepen mentorship, uphold ethical standards, embrace innovation, and remain united in purpose.

    “By expanding your horizons, you position Sokoto professionals for global relevance; by strengthening your bonds, you create lasting value for society,” he said.

    The Minister commended the Sokoto Professionals Network and their leadership for sustaining a credible platform that brings together experts from diverse fields in the interest of Sokoto State and Nigeria.

  • Group reviews year-long advocacy, reaffirms commitment to accountability, development

    Group reviews year-long advocacy, reaffirms commitment to accountability, development

    The Ondo Redemption Front (ORF) has recapped its activities for the outgoing year, highlighting its sustained advocacy for accountability, transparent governance, and people-centred development in Ondo State.

    At her December state of the state Address delivered in Lagos by the Chairman of the group, Comrade Ayodeji Ologun, PhD, the Co-Chairman, Comrade Mogbojuri Kayode, Esq., and the secretary Adedotun Ajulo Esq., the civic organisation said the year under review was marked by consistent engagement with governance issues through its widely known State of the State monthly press conferences.

    According to the statement, the ORF’s monthly State of the State briefings served as a structured platform for assessing government policies, public finance management, service delivery, and the overall performance of state institutions. 

    The group noted that these engagements were driven by facts, research, and civic responsibility, rather than political sentiment or personal interest.

    The ORF stated that throughout the year, it maintained a principled balance by acknowledging areas of progress while also drawing attention to lapses, inconsistencies, and governance gaps where necessary. 

    It stressed that its interventions were guided by the belief that accountability strengthens democracy and that constructive criticism is essential for responsive governance.

    Beyond its press engagements, the group said it remained committed to serving as a reasoning voice for the people of Ondo State, amplifying public concerns and reinforcing the idea that public office is a trust that must be exercised in the interest of the citizens. 

    The organization added that its advocacy was anchored on the long-term development of the state and the protection of democratic values.

    The group further reaffirmed the ORF’s commitment to the development of Ondo State, noting that its vision remains a state governed with transparency, competence, inclusiveness, and empathy, where public resources are judiciously managed and policies are evaluated based on their impact on the lives of the people.

    The group commended the people of Ondo State for their resilience, civic consciousness, and continued commitment to democratic engagement despite prevailing economic and social challenges. 

    It noted that the perseverance and participation of citizens remain a source of encouragement for sustained advocacy.

    Extending goodwill messages for the festive season, the Ondo Redemption Front conveyed warm greetings to the people of the State, wishing them peace, renewed hope, and a prosperous year ahead.

    The group urged the government to move beyond policy statements and announcements in the coming year and focus on the delivery and commissioning of visible, impactful projects for residents of the state.

    It added that the Ondo Redemption Front remains committed to acting as a watchdog for the public interest, a platform for civic engagement, and a constructive voice in public discourse.

    Looking into the new year, the ORF assured that it would remain vigilant, independent, and principled in its operations. 

    The group pledged to intensify its advocacy for transparency, accountability, good governance, and people-oriented policies, while continuing to engage government constructively and speak truth to power without fear or favour.

    The statement concluded that in the coming year, the Ondo Redemption Front will remain steadfast as a watchdog of public interest, a platform for civic engagement, and a voice of reason, committed to justice, equity, and the sustainable development of Ondo state.

  • Asake visits President Mahama after show in Accra

    Asake visits President Mahama after show in Accra

    Award-winning singer Asake’s recent meeting with Ghana’s President John Mahama in Accra, sparked widespread online attention.

    This meeting followed his headline performance at the AfroFuture Ghana festival, held at El-Wak Stadium as part of the “December in GH” festivities.

    The encounter, captured on video, shows Asake warmly greeting President Mahama and other guests, including Ghanaian actor John Dumelo and businessman Ibrahima Mahama.

    Read Also: Asake mourns death of fan crushed in Nairobi concert stampede

    During their interaction, Mahama joked about a fan firing a gun during Asake’s concert, saying, “So he is the one the guy fired the gun for?”

    Asake expressed regret and appealed for leniency, but Mahama responded, “Don’t worry about it. The law is the law.”

    The suspect was apprehended for the unlawful possession and discharge of a firearm at a public event.

    Asake, a Grammy-nominated artist, has released three albums and recently relocated to Los Angeles.

  • Makarfi urges governments to tackle insecurity, ease economic hardships in 2026

    Makarfi urges governments to tackle insecurity, ease economic hardships in 2026

    Former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts aimed at decisively addressing all forms of insecurity that troubled the country in 2025.

    In his New Year message to Nigerians, Makarfi also urged authorities to introduce policies and measures that would ease the economic burdens currently facing citizens across the country.

    He said that despite the economic challenges and security concerns that tested the patience and resilience of Nigerians in the outgoing year, citizens should not lose hope.

    According to the former governor, renewed commitment by government and collective optimism among Nigerians are essential to overcoming the nation’s present difficulties and achieving a more stable and prosperous future.

    Read Also: Makarfi urges Nigerians to harness unity, resources for better Nigeria

    Makarfi said, “As we exit 2025, I extend greetings and best wishes to all Nigerians. As the past year tested our patience and resilience in the face of economic hardships, insecurity and other uncertainties, the new year offers us an opportunity to strengthen our resolve to confront and overcome our challenges together as a people united by shared hopes and a promising destiny. 

    “As we look ahead, we must continue to carry on with courage, industry and faith in the promise of Nigeria, leveraging on, among others the one big endowment that God has blessed us with, which is our diversity in both human and material resources. Using this, we can rekindle hope and reinforce unity across all lines. 

    “As our diversity remains our biggest source of strength, we must continue to see and use it to engender mutual respect and sustained dialogue, so that together, all of us can deploy our disparate skills and expertise to build and bequeath a Nigeria worthy of the pride of this and upcoming generations of Nigerians. 

    “I appeal to governments at all levels to upscale efforts aimed at decisively wiping out all forms of insecurity that have been allowed to become seemingly intractable as well as introduce measures to ease the burdens imposed by the economic difficulties, ravaging the country. 

    “It is my fervent prayer that God Almighty brings forth a 2026 and beyond that heralds renewed unity and peace, improved security, economic recovery and grater opportunities for all Nigerians. Happy New Year and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

  • Group urges support for police to ensure peaceful 2027 elections

    Group urges support for police to ensure peaceful 2027 elections

    As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, a group under the auspices of the Integrity Youth Alliance (IYA) has called for maximum support for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to guarantee a peaceful and credible electoral process.

    Speaking on Wednesday at a press conference in Abuja titled “Building Trust, Enhancing Security: Supporting the Nigeria Police for Credible 2027 Elections”, the group’s Deputy National Coordinator, Stephen Okwor, urged Nigerians to have confidence in the police and cooperate with the Force.

    The Alliance noted that the Nigeria Police Force, as the lead internal security agency, plays a central role in safeguarding elections through the protection of voters, electoral officials and election materials. It stressed the need for strict enforcement of electoral laws and the prevention of violence before, during and after elections.

    According to IYA, public trust in the police is critical to voter participation and overall electoral integrity.

    The group commended the leadership of the NPF under the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for efforts aimed at addressing insecurity across the country. 

    Okwor also acknowledged ongoing reforms and strategic initiatives focused on improving operational readiness, inter-agency cooperation and community engagement ahead of the polls.

    He emphasised that election security should not be the sole responsibility of the police, calling for a collective approach involving citizens, political actors, civil society organisations, the media and other stakeholders to tackle challenges such as misinformation, voter intimidation and election-related violence.

    Among its key demands, the Alliance called for adequate funding and resourcing of the police, improved welfare and insurance coverage for officers deployed during elections, stronger collaboration between security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and full implementation of internal accountability mechanisms within the Force.

    The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting electoral security through sustained advocacy, monitoring and reporting of threats to the electoral process, youth engagement to discourage violence, and support for reforms that promote professionalism, respect for human rights and community-oriented policing.

  • DSS records operational gains, institutional reforms under DG Ajayi in 2025 – Expert

    DSS records operational gains, institutional reforms under DG Ajayi in 2025 – Expert

    The Department of State Services (DSS) recorded significant operational and institutional advancements in 2025 under the leadership of its Director-General, Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, with increased emphasis on intelligence-led operations, inter-agency cooperation and internal reforms, according to security analyst and digital communications expert, Deji Adesogan.

    In a statement, Adesogan said that since Ajayi assumed office in 2024, the DSS has shifted towards a more preventive intelligence approach aimed at disrupting security threats before they escalate.

    He noted that in 2025, the Service intensified operations against terrorism, kidnapping and arms trafficking networks across the North-East, North-West and parts of the Middle Belt.

    According to him, security sources confirmed that several security threats were neutralised through intelligence-driven interventions, reflecting the Service’s renewed focus on proactive and coordinated security operations.

    “The DSS also strengthened collaboration with other security agencies, including the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and allied intelligence institutions. The improved coordination enhanced information sharing and operational response across multiple security theatres.”

    “Institutionally, the Service undertook reviews of long-standing detention cases and implemented court rulings, including the release of individuals held without sufficient legal basis and compliance with compensation orders. These actions were acknowledged by legal practitioners and civil society organisations as steps toward strengthening the rule of law,” he said.

    Adesogan said that in 2025, the DSS leadership received public recognition from state governments and community leaders in areas affected by insecurity, citing timely intelligence that helped prevent violence and restore calm. Security analysts and retired officers also noted improvements in coordination and operational discipline within the Service.

    “The Director-General was further recognised by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI) for improved engagement with media organisations and a more structured approach to press-related security matters. The recognition highlighted evolving relations between the DSS and the media sector.”

    “Internally, the Service implemented reforms aimed at improving staff welfare, training and career development. Training programmes were updated to address emerging threats such as cyber-enabled crime and transnational criminal networks. The appointment of the first female Deputy Director-General was also recorded as part of ongoing leadership reforms.

    Community engagement remained part of the Service’s operational strategy, with emphasis on strengthening local intelligence networks and early-warning systems in areas prone to security challenges.”

    “While security concerns persist across parts of the country, developments within the DSS in 2025 reflect ongoing efforts to enhance operational effectiveness, institutional accountability and public confidence,” the statement concluded.

  • FULL LIST: Prominent Nigerians who died in 2025

    FULL LIST: Prominent Nigerians who died in 2025

    The year 2025 will be remembered in Nigeria not only for major political and social milestones, but also for the deep sense of loss following the deaths of many distinguished personalities. 

    From January to December, every sector of national life, politics, public service, traditional institutions, religion, media, sports, academia and the creative arts, was touched, as voices that once shaped policy, culture and community life fell silent, underscoring the fragility of life and the power of legacy.

    As the year closes today, Nigerians reflect on the lives of elder statesmen, reformers, monarchs, icons and quiet achievers whose service spanned national and local spaces.

    Reporting month by month, Samuel Oamen, lists losses across fields, reminding the country that beyond how these figures died, their enduring contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s evolving story

    1. January

    Rabi’atu Sifawa died on January 6, in a tragic house fire that also claimed the lives of her children and house help. She was the daughter of the Secretary to the Sokoto State Government, and her death drew widespread sympathy across the state.

    Ajose Adeogun passed away on January 12. A veteran Lagos APC leader and former Head of Service, he was remembered for decades of public service and political commitment to Lagos State.

    Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga died on January 15. She served as the Deputy Chief Whip of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, representing constituencies in Ogun State until her death.

    Edna Ibru died on January 15. A former Miss Nigeria and one-time First Lady of Delta State, she was widely admired for her warmth and strong community presence.

    Jeremiah Timbut Useni passed away on January 23. The retired lieutenant general was a former FCT minister and a notable political figure who also contested for governor.

    Actor Asa Koko died on January 30, after a prolonged illness lasting over two years.

    Ademola Ambode died on January 31. He was a Lagos grassroots political mobiliser and brother to former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode.

    2. February

    Actress Patience “Pat” Ugwu, popularly called “Sugar Girl,” died on February 5, at age 35. Known for roles in films like Lack of Money (2018) and Port-Harcourt Lady (2019), Ugwu was also a fitness coach and beauty entrepreneur.

    Columbus Irosanga died on February 6. He was a senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt’s Theatre Arts Department, was known for portraying native doctors’ roles in movies.

    Ayo Adebanjo died on February 14. The Yoruba nationalist and Afenifere leader was revered as an elder statesman and a strong voice for restructuring and democracy.

    Solomon Ayodeji-Otegbola passed away on February 15. He was a seasoned public servant and PDP stalwart in Ogun State.

    Chief Edwin Clark died on February 17. The influential Niger Delta leader was a relentless advocate for resource control and regional equity.

    Tom Adaba passed away on February 22. A pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting, he served as the first Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission.

    Anike Agbaje-Williams died peacefully on February 26, in Ibadan at 88. She made history as the first face and voice on African television and radio in 1959.

    3. March

    Doyin Okupe passed away on March 7. He was a former presidential spokesman and an experienced political strategist in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

    Nkechi Nweje passed away on March 21. The Nollywood actress was remembered for her energetic performances and dedication to her craft.

    Raphael Bassey passed away on March 29. He was an Akwa Ibom public servant noted for his advocacy in education development.

    4. April

    Yekini Adeojo died on April 4. The PDP chieftain was a prominent grassroots politician from Oyo State.

    Omololu Olunloyo passed away on April 6. A former governor of Oyo State, he was also a respected mathematician and academic.

    Pascal Dozie died on April 8. He was the founder of Diamond Bank and a pioneer of modern banking in Nigeria.

    Christian Chukwu passed away on April 10. The former Green Eagles captain and coach remained one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures.

    Bolaji Olanrewaju died on April 19. A gospel singer and Pastor pass away at the age of 50 after a brief illness.

    5. May

    Kolade Akindayomi died on May 4. He was a religious leader known for his spiritual influence and community service.

    Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade passed away in May. He served as a former military administrator and later as a minister in Nigeria.

    6. June

    Justice Daniel Dantsoho Abutu died on June 3, 2025. He was a retired jurist who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s legal system.

    Jibril Aminu passed away on June 5. An accomplished academic, he served Nigeria as a senator and federal minister.

    Mohammed Lawal Uwais died on June 6. The former Chief Justice of Nigeria was widely respected for judicial reforms.

    Mike Ejeagha passed away on June 6. The highlife legend was revered as a custodian of Igbo musical heritage.

    Solape Abolarin died on June 9. She was a passionate education advocate and community leader.

    Jesutega Onokpasa passed away on June 9. He was a political commentator and prominent APC figure.

    Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo passed away on June 25. He was a former governor and federal minister.

    Kayode Peters,  a filmmaker and producer died on June 28, in Toronto, Canada, after a long battle with illness.

    7. July

    Peter Rufai passed away on July 3. The former Super Eagles goalkeeper was an AFCON champion and Nigerian football icon.

    Monday Sinclair died on July 16. He was a former footballer and coach who contributed to grassroots development.

    Aminu Dantata died on July 28. The Kano-based businessman was widely respected for philanthropy and enterprise.

    Read Also: Biola Bayo reacts to sudden loss of Allwell Ademola

    8. August

    Dr Doyin Abiola died on August 5. She was a veteran journalist and former Managing Director of National Concord.

    Audu Ogbeh passed away on August 9. The former minister and PDP chairman played key roles in Nigeria’s political history.

    Muhammadu Buhari died on August 13. Nigeria’s former president and military leader left a lasting imprint on national governance.

    Sikiru Kayode Adetona passed away on August 13. The Awujale of Ijebuland was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning and most respected monarchs.

    Olusegun Akinremi, better known as Chief Kanran, died on August 15. A veteran actor celebrated for his humor and commanding presence, left a decades-long legacy on stage and screen.

    Isyaku Ibrahim passed away on August 18. He was a business leader and influential northern community figure.

    Reginald Carroll died on August 24. He was known for his service in public administration.

    Ahuja Bello passed away on August 25. The juju music maestro was a strong cultural voice in Nigerian music.

    Solomon Arase died on August 30. The former Inspector-General of Police was recognised for police reforms.

    9. September

    Grace Adayilo died on September 1. She was a respected community advocate.

    Leila Fowler passed away on September 6. She was known for humanitarian and education philanthropy.

    Comedian Adetola Samad, known as “Sanku,” died on September 1, in a car accident in Oyo State.

    Olorogun Oscar Ibru died on September 24. The businessman was a key member of the prominent Ibru family.

    Arise TV anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, affectionately called “Sommie,” tragically died on September 29, during an armed robbery at her Abuja home.

    10. October

    Uma Ukpai passed away on October 6. He was a renowned evangelist and interdenominational leader.

    Christopher Kolade died on October 8. The diplomat and corporate statesman served Nigeria in public and private sectors.

    11. November

    Ifeoluwa Akindayomi died on November 2. He was an RCCG pastor and community leader.

    Abdullahi Mohammed passed away on November 5. The retired major general also served as a senior civil servant.

    Hajiya Saratu Shagari died on November 10. She was Nigeria’s former First Lady.

    Dan Agbese passed away on November 17. The veteran journalist was widely respected for his fearless commentary.

    Segun Awolowo died on November 20. He was an economist and former NEPC Director-General.

    Bayo Osiyemi passed away on November 21. He was a journalist and Lagos political figure.

    Nemuel Abubakar Babba died on November 24. He served as Archbishop Emeritus of the Lutheran Church.

    Oba Philip Adegboyega Famodun III died on November 28. He was a respected traditional ruler in Ondo State.

    12. December

    Prof. Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso died on December 2. He was a respected historian and scholar.

    John Ajayi passed away on December 10. He was an education administrator.

    Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo died on December 11. He was the deputy governor of Bayelsa.

    Tunde Ponle passed away on December 14. The media executive was known for his journalism career.

    Tanko Muhammad died on December 16. He served as Chief Justice of Nigeria.

    Peter Nwaoboshi passed away on December 19. He was a former senator who represented Delta North.

    Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo died on December 24. He was a respected Islamic cleric.

    Sarki Aliyu Daneji passed away on December 24. The traditional ruler was known for civic leadership.

    Allwell Ademola died on December 27. The Nollywood actress and producer reportedly passed away after a heart attack.

  • Surpass EFCC records as Justice Ministry’s DPP, Olajengbesi tasks Oyedepo 

    Surpass EFCC records as Justice Ministry’s DPP, Olajengbesi tasks Oyedepo 

    Human rights lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has charged Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) to surpass his past prosecution records with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in his new role as the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja. 

    In a statement, Olajengbesi, a senior partner at Abuja-based law firm, Law Corridor, described Oyedepo’s appointment by President Bola Tinubu as deserving. 

    Oyedepo was transferred from the anti-graft agency to the mainstream Federal Civil Service to succeed Abubakar Babadoko, who is due to retire on December 31, 2025, after completing the mandatory eight years as a director.

    Olajengbesi said, “The appointment of Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) as the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Federal Ministry of Justice is applaudable. 

    “Over the years, the learned silk has demonstrated capacity and competence in the diligent prosecution of complex economic and financial crimes. His almost two decades in the EFCC and various landmark cases he meticulously prosecuted are testaments of professionalism and diligence. 

    “Yet, the latest appointment is a call to higher responsibility and patriotic duty. It is only desirable that Oyedepo surpass the fine records he achieved in the EFCC now that he has been appointed as the Director of Public Prosecution in the Federal Ministry of Justice. 

    “Oyedepo’s work is cut out for him. The Justice Ministry will count on his expertise to reduce reliance on external counsel for critical prosecutions. Indeed, the reward for hard work is more work.”

  • Makarfi urges Nigerians to harness unity, resources for better Nigeria

    Makarfi urges Nigerians to harness unity, resources for better Nigeria

    Former Governor of Kaduna State and ex-Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Ahmed Makarfi, has called on Nigerians to deploy their skills, strength, resources and diversity to rekindle hope and build a better nation.

    In a New Year message personally signed and made available to journalists in Abuja, Makarfi said the New Year offers Nigerians another opportunity to confront the country’s challenges with renewed determination.

    Makarfi, who recently resigned as Secretary of the PDP Board of Trustees, extended his greetings and best wishes to Nigerians as the country bids farewell to 2025.

    He noted that the outgoing year tested the patience and resilience of citizens amid economic difficulties, insecurity and other uncertainties, stressing that the New Year provides a chance to strengthen collective resolve.

    According to him, Nigerians must face their challenges together as a united people, bound by shared hopes and a promising national destiny, in order to overcome current difficulties and secure a brighter future for the country.

    “As we look ahead, we must continue to carry on with courage, industry and faith in the promise of Nigeria, leveraging on, among others the one big endowment that God has blessed us with, which is our diversity in both human and material resources. 

    Read Also: Makarfi urges governments to tackle insecurity, ease economic hardships in 2026

    “Using this, we can rekindle hope and reinforce unity across all lines. As our diversity remains our biggest source of strength, we must continue to see and use it to engender mutual respect and sustained dialogue, so that together, all of us can deploy our disparate skills and expertise to build and bequeath a Nigeria worthy of the pride of this and upcoming generations of Nigerians. 

    “I appeal to governments at all levels to upscale efforts aimed at decisively wiping out all forms of insecurity that have been allowed to become seemingly intractable as well as introduce measures to ease the burdens imposed by the economic difficulties, ravaging the country. 

    “It is my fervent prayer that God Almighty brings forth a 2026 and beyond that heralds renewed unity and peace, improved security, economic recovery and grater opportunities for all Nigerians. 

    “Happy New Year and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

  • Knorr spreads happiness, joy across communities across Nigeria

    Knorr spreads happiness, joy across communities across Nigeria

    In a celebration that truly captured the spirit of the season, Knorr, Nigeria’s leading seasoning brand, spread yuletide cheer and joy across 21 markets and 30 communities spanning ten cities nationwide. 

    Through its annual “Share the Good” campaign, the brand reaffirmed its commitment to flavouring lives while celebrating consumers across Nigeria who have trusted the brand to add flavour to everyday meals.

    This year, Knorr took the celebration even further, expanding its reach across multiple cities, deepening community engagement, and putting smiles on faces, food in bellies, and joy in the hearts of thousands.

    Across markets and communities in Ibadan, Akure, Lagos, Anambra, Enugu, Owerri, Rivers, Delta, Benin and Abia, Knorr created meaningful moments by entertaining customers with cultural troupes, sharing nutritious food, and gifting raffle tickets to lucky shoppers who won Knorr-branded items like microwaves, umbrellas, fanny packs, gas cookers, and more. 

    The highlight of each market experience was the jollof cook-off, which had the markets cheering with excitement. Two market women were selected at each location to compete in a live jollof cooking competition, and the winners received cooking pot sets and Knorr Wingman Boxes.

    Speaking on this year’s “Share the Good”, Damilola Dania, Foods Demand Creation Lead, Unilever Nigeria Plc, said, “At Knorr, we believe the true spirit of the season is found in the connections we create and the happiness we share. 

    This year’s Share the Good campaign showed that in every market, every community, and every smile we encountered. From bustling marketplaces to communities, we sparked moments of happiness. Our 30-community, ten-city celebration reinforced the powerful role food plays in connection, care, and collective celebration — and we are proud to continue sharing the good across Nigeria.”

    Year after year, Knorr continues to show up at the heart of Nigeria’s most meaningful moments, from kitchens to celebrations — and 2025 was no exception. The success of this year’s Share for Good campaign once again affirmed Knorr’s belief that food is far more than a seasoning; it is a connector, a comfort, and a catalyst for shared happiness.

    By consistently placing people and communities at the centre of its festive outreach, Knorr transformed markets and neighbourhoods into spaces of celebration, collective pride, and genuine appreciation. 

    In doing so, the brand renewed its enduring commitment to tasty, memorable moments and sustaining a tradition of sharing the good — one that continues to resonate long after the festive season has passed.