Author: The Nation

  • Uba Sani commissions Kauru road, ends 45 years of neglect

    Uba Sani commissions Kauru road, ends 45 years of neglect

    Relief has finally come to communities along the Pambeguwa–Kahutu–Kauru axis as Governor Uba Sani on Tuesday commissioned the 22-kilometre asphalt road linking Kubau and Kauru local government areas, ending decades of difficult travel and isolation.

    The project, which includes a span bridge connecting the two councils, is seen by residents as the first real answer to a road need that had lingered for close to 50 years without resolution.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Sani recalled that when he visited the area on August 27, 2024, to flag off the project, the journey from Pambeguwa to Kauru took nearly one hour due to the deplorable state of the road.

    He noted with satisfaction that the same trip took less than 12 minutes on Tuesday, attributing the dramatic improvement to the completion of the road project.

    According to him, Kauru was among 12 local governments in Kaduna State that had not benefited from any road project in the last 12 years, despite the strategic importance of the route to surrounding communities.

    He said previous administrations had recognised the importance of the road and made attempts to fix it, but “for various reasons, the project remained incomplete.”

    Read Also: Kaduna: Uba Sani commissions the longest road in 20 years

    “When we broke ground for this road on 27th August 2024, we made a solemn commitment to the people of these communities. Today, we return not with explanations or excuses, but with a completed project that speaks for itself,” the governor said.

    He stressed that the commissioning underscored a defining principle of his administration that promises made to the people must be kept through visible and measurable delivery.

    Governor Sani assured residents that the government would not stop at the highway but would also construct township roads and address the nearly 20-year electricity blackout affecting Kauru town.

    He recalled that since assuming office, his administration had embarked on what he described as an ambitious but deliberate programme of infrastructure renewal across the state.

    “We have initiated the construction of 140 roads spanning over 1,335 kilometres across Kaduna State’s three senatorial zones, guided by data, equity and a firm resolve to correct years of imbalance in access and opportunity,” he said.

    The governor added that the newly completed road is deliberately routed through agriculturally productive communities to ease the movement of farm produce to aggregation centres, processing facilities and markets, thereby reducing travel time, lowering transport costs and improving economic opportunities for farmers, traders, students and emergency services.

  • JUST IN: INEC uncovers deceased persons’ names on voters’ register, plans nationwide verification

    JUST IN: INEC uncovers deceased persons’ names on voters’ register, plans nationwide verification

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, on Wednesday disclosed that a review of the nation’s voters’ register revealed that the names of several deceased Nigerians remain on the list currently used for elections.

    Amupitan made the disclosure during the commission’s first quarterly meeting with Civil Society Organisations, where he noted that INEC would soon commence a nationwide verification exercise to sanitise the register.

    He explained that the planned verification is aimed at identifying and removing ineligible entries to improve the credibility and integrity of the electoral database.

    He said, “When we look at the Voters Register for Anambra state during the off cycle elections in November, we discovered that the number of registered voters stood at over 2.9 million, but only about 600 came out to vote.

    Read Also: LP crisis deepens as INEC removes Abure-led executive from portal

    “This is just about 20 percent of the registered voters. So, we decided to take another look at the register and we discovered names of prominent Nigerian politicians who have died still on the register. That impact on the integrity of the register and we have to do a clean up because we don’t expect the dead to come from the grave to vote”.

    Prof Amupitan also disclosed that the timetable for the 2027 was ready, but was being delayed in view of ongoing amendment to the electoral act which may affect the timetable.

  • JUST IN: INEC finalises 2027 election timetable amid Electoral Act passage delay

    JUST IN: INEC finalises 2027 election timetable amid Electoral Act passage delay

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians of its preparedness for the 2027 general election, despite delays in the passage of the amended Electoral Act currently before the National Assembly.

    The Commission said it has finalised the election timetable and schedule of activities, pending the outcome of legislative action on the proposed amendments.

    INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja at a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs.

    Read Also: Arewa Think Tank opposes removal of INEC chairman

    While he noted that INEC has made its submissions to the National Assembly, Amupitan conceded that some items in the schedule of activities could be impacted by the time the lawmakers pass the electoral act.

    He, however, said for now, the commission has no choice than to rely on the subsisting Act for its activities.

    Details shortly…

  • 14 things to know about late gospel music legend Ron Kenoly  

    14 things to know about late gospel music legend Ron Kenoly  

    Renowned American Christian worship leader, singer, and songwriter Ron Kenoly died on Tuesday at the age of 81.

    His death was confirmed by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, in a statement shared on Kenoly’s official Instagram page.

    Widely celebrated for redefining modern praise and worship, Kenoly built a decades-long ministry that influenced churches and worship leaders across the world.

    Here are key things to know about his life, career, and legacy.

    1. Ron Kenoly was one of the most influential Christian worship leaders of the modern era, known for shaping contemporary praise and worship music worldwide.

    2. He was born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, where he also spent his early childhood.

    3. Kenoly served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1968, a period that helped shape his musical discipline and performance experience.

    4. Before fully embracing gospel music, Kenoly recorded secular R&B and soul tracks and even used the stage name Ron Keith early in his career.

    Read Also: Gospel music icon Ron Kenoly dies at 81

    5. While in the Air Force, he was part of The Mellow Fellows, a top-40 cover band that toured military bases.

    6. Kenoly recorded demos for Audio Arts, later signed with A&M Records, and eventually became a key artist with Integrity Music.

    7. His album “Lift Him Up” became the fastest-selling worship album at the time, launching him into international prominence.

    8. His album “Welcome Home” won the Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album of the Year in 1997.

    9. Kenoly served as worship leader and later Music Pastor at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California.

    10. In 1987, he was officially ordained and installed as a music pastor, combining ministry with music leadership.

    11. Kenoly earned a music degree, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctorate of Ministry in Sacred Music.

    12. Beyond performing, he advised churches on building effective worship and music ministries nationwide.

    13. In 1999, he moved to central Florida, continuing to teach, record, and minister globally.

    14. Ron Kenoly was a cousin of Hollywood actor Don Cheadle, a lesser-known fact about his family background.

  • FULL LIST: Africa’s most progressive countries in 2026

    FULL LIST: Africa’s most progressive countries in 2026

    The 2026 Global Social Progress Index has ranked Mauritius as Africa’s most progressive country, as new data suggests that global improvements in quality of life may be stalling, or even reversing, after years of steady gains.

    The latest Index warns that the world is at a critical turning point, with declines recorded across key social indicators.

    The ranking indicates that global rights scores have dropped by nearly 6 points since 2011, including a 1.9-point decline between 2021 and 2025.

    Over the same period, progress in health, personal safety, environmental quality, water and sanitation, housing, and access to information has slowed or deteriorated.

    The Global Social Progress Index assesses 57 social and environmental indicators across 171 countries, representing more than 99 percent of the world’s population.

    Read Also: Six countries that legalise undocumented immigrants in recent years

    Unlike traditional economic rankings, the Index focuses on how well countries convert economic growth into improved living conditions for their citizens.

    Here are the top 10 Most Progressive Countries in Africa (2026):

    1. Mauritius

    2. Algeria

    3. Tunisia

    4. South Africa

    5. Cape Verde

    6. Morocco

    7. Botswana

    8. Libya

    9. Namibia

    10. Ghana 

  • Why I barely go to clubs again – Davido

    Why I barely go to clubs again – Davido

    Award-winning singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, revealed that he has distanced himself from the high-energy party lifestyle that defined his early years in the music industry.

    In an interview on The LongForm Podcast, the singer attributed this change to his growing maturity, family life, and desire for rest, stating that fame, money, and influence at a young age had previously pushed him into an intense nightlife culture.

    Davido stated that he now prefers spending time at home with his family or connecting with his wife virtually when he’s away, rather than going out to clubs for leisure.

    Read Also: “He was robbed”: Fans react to Davido’s Grammy loss

    “That freedom, power, and money at that young age, I was like, I used to wild out, man, but like these days, like, I don’t even go to the club, bro like, I’m telling you, I used to go to the club every day. Like, we used to, it was like, it was part of us, like, we’re going somewhere to be.

    “I was just in Nigeria for almost two months. I didn’t go out. I was just at home, like, and I was actually having fun. I’d go to, like, my studio, chill, like, have somebody come barbecue. You know what I’m saying? Like, that’s fun to me. I just chill. Before I knew it, it’s 3.30 a.m., 4 a.m. Just relaxing at home. I have to go home, I call my wife, I sleep off on FaceTime, like, it was boring stuff, bro,” he said.

    Davido clarified that, despite the shift, he still switches into performance mode when work calls.

    “But I mean, I get active, like, when it’s time to party, when it’s time to record music, like, when it’s time to do a show, obviously, like, you know, so that’s my career. But just like regular life, like, anytime I have an opportunity to sleep these days, I rush and go and sleep,” he said.

  • Tongits na May Totoong Players on GameZone Makes Every Match Feel Real

    Tongits na May Totoong Players on GameZone Makes Every Match Feel Real

    Before smartphones and online games, Tongits was already winning hearts around wooden tables, plastic chairs, and late-night talking. Cards were shuffled by hand, jokes were exchanged freely, and every move was watched closely. Winning felt personal, and losing came with laughter and lessons. That feeling the tension, the excitement, and the human connection—is what made Tongits special.

    Today, that same experience lives on in a modern way. Tongits na may totoong players on GameZone brings the real essence of the game online, where every match is played against actual people. No predictable bots. No lifeless moves. Just real players making real decisions in real time. From clever bluffs to last-second Tongits calls, every round feels alive, competitive, and authentically Filipino.

    This is not just online Tongits. It is the digital continuation of a tradition—one that proves you do not need to sit at the same table to feel the thrill of a real game.

    Why Playing Against Real Players Changes Everything

    Playing Tongits against computer-controlled opponents can be entertaining, but it lacks unpredictability. Real players bring emotion, creativity, and unique playstyles that no system can fully copy.

    With tongits na may totoong players on GameZone, every match feels different. Some opponents play aggressively, others are cautious and patient. Some bluff confidently, while others wait for the perfect moment to strike. This variety keeps every game exciting and challenging.

    Real players mean:

    • Unpredictable strategies
    • Smarter and adaptive gameplay
    • Genuine competition
    • A more satisfying win

    When you win against real opponents, the victory feels earned. When you lose, you learn something valuable for the next game.

    Tongits That Stays True to Filipino Culture

    Tongits has always reflected Filipino values such as patience, observation, and social connection. Many players learned the game by watching elders play before being invited to join. These moments often turned into lasting memories.

    GameZone respects that tradition. The rules, flow, and spirit of Tongits remain familiar. The difference is that you no longer need to gather everyone in one place. You can now enjoy the same cultural experience online, anytime and anywhere.

    By offering tongits na may totoong players on GameZone, the platform keeps the heart of the game alive while making it accessible to modern lifestyles.

    Smooth Gameplay That Feels Natural

    A realistic Tongits experience depends heavily on how the game feels while playing. GameZone delivers smooth gameplay that allows players to focus on strategy instead of technical issues.

    Cards are easy to read, animations are fluid, and actions respond quickly. Drawing, discarding, and calling Tongits feel natural and intuitive. Even long matches remain comfortable and engaging.

    This smooth performance is especially important when playing against real players, where timing and focus matter.

    Multiple Tongits Modes for Every Play Style

    Another reason matches feel real on GameZone is the variety of Tongits modes available. Players can choose the style that best matches their mood and skill level.

    Popular modes include:

    • Tongits Plus – A balanced version close to traditional gameplay
    • Tongits Joker – Adds jokers for more unpredictable strategies
    • Tongits Quick – Fast-paced matches for short play sessions
    • Tongits Jackpot – Higher stakes and more thrilling competition

    Each mode offers a unique challenge while keeping the core Tongits experience intact.

    Real Competition Through Tournaments

    For players who enjoy higher stakes and stronger competition, tournaments bring Tongits to another level. GameZone regularly hosts tournaments where real players compete in structured matches.

    Tournament play adds pressure, excitement, and a sense of achievement. Every move becomes more meaningful, and every win feels rewarding. Competing against skilled opponents helps players sharpen their strategies and improve decision-making.

    With tongits na may totoong players on GameZone, tournaments feel intense and exciting—just like a real-life competition.

    Social Interaction That Feels Familiar

    One of the best parts of Tongits has always been the social experience. Even online, playing with real people keeps that feeling alive.

    Every match has its own energy because each opponent plays differently. The game feels dynamic, interactive, and engaging. You are not just playing cards—you are playing minds.

    This social element is what makes Tongits on GameZone feel closer to a real table game than a typical online card game.

    A Platform You Can Trust

    Trust is essential when playing online. GameZone is PAGCOR licensed, meaning it operates under Philippine gaming regulations.

    This ensures:

    • Fair and transparent gameplay
    • Secure player data
    • Responsible gaming practices

    Knowing the platform is regulated allows players to relax and focus on enjoying the game. Trust builds confidence, and confidence enhances the overall experience.

    Perfect for Beginners and Experienced Players

    Whether you are new to Tongits or have years of experience, GameZone welcomes all players. Beginners can learn through practice, while experienced players can test their skills against tougher opponents.

    Because you are playing with real people, improvement happens naturally. Every match teaches something new, making the game both fun and rewarding.

    Why Every Match Feels Real on GameZone

    What truly makes tongits na may totoong players on GameZone stand out is the combination of authenticity, competition, and convenience.

    GameZone delivers:

    • Real players, not bots
    • Classic rules with modern polish
    • Smooth, responsive gameplay
    • Multiple game modes
    • Competitive tournaments
    • A trusted, licensed platform

    Together, these elements create an experience that feels genuine, exciting, and deeply Filipino.

    Final Thoughts

    Tongits na may totoong players on GameZone makes every match feel real because it captures everything players love about the traditional game and brings it online without losing its soul. The thrill of facing real opponents, the satisfaction of smart strategies, and the comfort of familiar gameplay all come together in one platform.

    By blending culture, competition, and convenience, GameZone proves that classic Filipino games can thrive in the digital world. Whether you play for fun, challenge, or nostalgia, every match feels authentic—just like playing Tongits at a real table.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. What does “tongits na may totoong players on GameZone” mean?

    It means you are playing Tongits against real people online, not computer-controlled bots.

    2. Is GameZone safe and licensed?

    Yes. GameZone is PAGCOR licensed and follows Philippine gaming regulations.

    3. Can beginners play Tongits on GameZone?

    Absolutely. The platform is beginner-friendly and easy to navigate.

    4. Are there different Tongits game modes available?

    Yes. You can play Tongits Plus, Tongits Joker, Tongits Quick, and Tongits Jackpot.

  • Angela Okorie free, not rearrested – Management

    Angela Okorie free, not rearrested – Management

    The management of Nollywood actress Angela Okorie has dismissed reports claiming she was rearrested following her release from the Suleja Correctional Centre, describing the information as inaccurate and misleading.

    In a statement shared on Okorie’s Instagram story, her management company, The Moving Train Entertainment, clarified that the actress remains free and has fully complied with all her bail conditions.

    The management also appealed to members of the public to rely on verified and credible sources for updates regarding the matter, amid widespread reports suggesting she had been taken back into custody.

    “It has come to our attention that certain blogs have reported the re-arrest of singer & actress Angela Okorie.

    “The management of Angela Okorie hereby clarifies that she is currently free and has not been re-arrested as alleged. Her bail conditions have been met and finalized.

    “These reports are inaccurate and misleading. We advise the public to rely only on verified and credible sources for information regarding this matter. Thank you”, the statement read.

    Angela Okorie also broke her silence following her release from detention, reassuring her fans and families that she will speak to them soon.

    Read Also: Alleged cyberstalking: Court grants actress Angela Okorie N5m bail

    She also appreciated those who showed her love and prayed for them.

    “I will speak to my fans and families tomorrow!! God bless each and every one of you who showed me love. You all are amazing. Thank you”, she wrote.

    Angela Okorie was initially arrested on January 26, 2026, in Lagos and transferred to Abuja, allegedly to face charges of cyberstalking and cyberbullying following a petition filed by fellow actress Mercy Johnson Okojie.

    She was granted bail on January 30, 2026, by a Federal High Court in Abuja with a N5 million bail and one surety in like sum.

  • Actor Bolanle Ninalowo joins Tinubu’s support team as Atlanta coordinator

    Actor Bolanle Ninalowo joins Tinubu’s support team as Atlanta coordinator

    Actor Bolanle Ninalowo has been appointed Atlanta, United States, coordinator for Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN), a pro-Tinubu advocacy group.

    The group, founded by Seyi Tinubu, aims to connect Nigerians with government activities and achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Ninalowo, on Instagram, expressed enthusiasm about the role, writing “Honoured to serve as coordinator Atlanta/USA for President Bola Tinubu. #RTIFN”.

    The advocacy group, on Instagram, describes itself as a youth-focused movement, serving as a hub for creativity, leadership, and innovation, and encouraging young Nigerians to participate in nation-building.

    According to the group, RTIFN’s goal is to bridge the gap between government and citizens, offering clear and reliable updates on national developments and achievements under Tinubu’s administration.

    Read Also: Bolanle Ninalowo celebrates daughter at 18

    The statement read, “This movement stands on a simple but powerful foundation — the energy, the innovation, and the resilience of Nigerian youths. RTIFN was created to serve as a bridge between the government and the people, offering citizens—both at home and across the diaspora—clear, reliable, and consistent enlightenment on the progress being made in our nation.

    “Our goal is to ensure that Nigerians everywhere have access to factual updates on national developments and the achievements recorded under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Through this, we hope to strengthen understanding, encourage dialogue, and inspire constructive participation.

    “But RTIFN is more than an information platform. It is a home for young people — a space where ideas are heard, innovation is encouraged, and leadership is nurtured.

    “We stand firmly behind the mission of this movement and the values it represents. And we call on young Nigerians everywhere to embrace their role in shaping the future, to think boldly, and to contribute meaningfully to the journey ahead.”

  • Claims of estate takeover misleading, false — Winhomes

    Claims of estate takeover misleading, false — Winhomes

    Winhomes Global Services Limited has dismissed as false and deceptive reports circulating in some quarters that its estate has been taken over by certain subscribers, describing the claims as malicious and legally impossible.

    In a public notice issued on Tuesday, the company clarified that Winhomes Estate remains the exclusive property of Winhomes Global Services Limited and has not been relinquished to any individual or group.

    According to the statement, what transpired was an unlawful invasion of the estate by a small group of individuals, including factions purporting to be subscribers, who allegedly gained access with the presence of uniformed military personnel.

    The company described the action as illegal self-help, noting that the Nigerian military has no constitutional authority to intervene in civil land or property disputes.

    Winhomes stressed that the estate is not vacant land but a fully developed property lawfully owned and managed by the company, backed by a valid Governor’s Consent issued by the Lagos State Government.

    It further clarified that all subscribers made payments directly to Winhomes Global Services Limited and not to any association or group, adding that any entity describing itself as an “Association of WINHOMES Landowners” has no legal standing.

    On compensation issues linked to the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road Project, the company stated that any compensation payable by the government would be made solely to Winhomes Global Services Limited as the lawful title holder. It assured subscribers that any compensation due to affected clients would be transparently and equitably disbursed in accordance with the law.

    Read Also: Why Nigerians in Diaspora reluctant to invest in Nigeria, by Winhomes CEO

    Winhomes also warned that acts such as forcible entry, intimidation, harassment, and destruction of property constitute criminal offences under Nigerian law. The company disclosed that estate gates and facilities were damaged during the invasion, actions it described as malicious damage to property.

    The company confirmed that it has commenced legal proceedings over the unlawful invasion of the estate, the unauthorised involvement of armed personnel, threats and intimidation, and the wilful destruction of property.

    Winhomes expressed appreciation to subscribers who have remained calm and law-abiding, assuring them that justice is being pursued and that all issues will be resolved through lawful means.

    “Winhomes remains lawful, standing, and committed to its subscribers. We will not be intimidated or derailed. Justice will prevail,” the statement concluded.