The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Teacher celebrated as he completes 220-hour teach-a-thon in Warri

    Teacher celebrated as he completes 220-hour teach-a-thon in Warri

    A Literature in English teacher, Omajuwa Chris Simeon Ajuwa, also known as “The god of Literature,” has been celebrated in Warri, Delta State, after successfully completing a 220-hour non-stop teaching marathon tagged “Warri Global Records.”

    The historic teach-a-thon, which began at exactly 4.00pm on Monday, December 8, and ended at 8.00pm on Wednesday, December 17, drew commendations from the Delta State Government and the Warri South Local Government Council, who described the feat as a product of determination rather than a publicity stunt.

    Speaking at the closing ceremony held on Thursday, December 18, the Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, who was represented by the Warri South Chief Inspector of Education, Dr. Samson Ugbejeh, praised the initiative and applauded the Council Chairman, Comr. Agbateyiniro Isaac, for his support.

    In his remarks, Comr. Agbateyiniro congratulated Ajuwa for making Warri South, Delta State and Nigeria proud, assuring him that the people would continue to celebrate his achievement for projecting the country positively through education.

    Representing the council chairman, Princess Eke described the teach-a-thon as inspiring, noting that determination played a key role in its success. 

    The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Warri Global Records certificate to Ajuwa.

    In his response, an elated Ajuwa expressed gratitude to God, the Warri South Local Government leadership and Fresh Angle International for their unwavering support.

  • MURIC reacts to resignation of oil regulators, cites Dangote’s concerns

    MURIC reacts to resignation of oil regulators, cites Dangote’s concerns

    The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has reacted to the resignation of the former Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Ahmed Farouk, saying the development aligns with earlier comments made by President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.

    MURIC made a similar remark on the resignation of the former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr. Gbenga Komolafe.

    The group’s position was contained in a statement signed by its Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, and made available to journalists on Friday.

    Farouk and Komolafe resigned from their positions on Wednesday.

    Reacting, Akintola said the resignations have brought renewed attention to issues raised by Dangote on fuel importation and regulation in the oil and gas sector.

    He said, “The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has described the resignation of Mr. Farouk Ahmed as vindication for Alhaji Aliko Dangote who recently accused him of sharp practices.

    “Mr. Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), resigned alongside his counterpart, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, the CEO of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

    “It will be recalled that the President of Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, at a press conference held on Monday, 15th December, 2025, alleged that Farouk Ahmed was involved in corruption and economic sabotage.

    “It is only logical to affirm that Dangote is now vindicated. How can anyone explain a situation whereby Nigeria continues to import fuel after attaining self-sufficiency in fuel supply? The continued issuance of licenses for fuel importation into a country that already has more than enough beats logic.

    “Nigeria’s total daily fuel consumption is between 48 and 50 million litres as at 2024 and 2025. Meanwhile the output from Dangote Refinery recently rose from 650,000 barrels to 1.4 million barrels per day.

    “African countries like Ghana, Angola, South Africa, Cameroon, Namibia, Niger Republic, Chad, and the Central African Republic are also importing Dangote’s fuel. It therefore amounts to taking coal to Newcastle for a government agency to continue importing fuel into Nigeria. This is where Dangote’s allegation of economic sabotage gains weight and deserves attention.”

    Akintola maintained that the issues raised call for a closer examination of fuel importation policies in light of Nigeria’s growing domestic refining capacity.

  • Fear grips Delta community as suspected herdsman attacks farmer on farmland 

    Fear grips Delta community as suspected herdsman attacks farmer on farmland 

    • …women, youths protest

    Residents of Kokori community in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State have been thrown into fear and tension following a near-fatal attack on a 40-year-old farmer, Edafe Efeurhobo, allegedly by a suspected herdsman.

    Efeurhobo, who is currently battling for his life in hospital, was reportedly attacked in broad daylight on Monday after confronting herdsmen said to be destroying his mother’s cassava farm near their home.

    Speaking from his hospital bed, the victim said he had asked the herdsmen to remove their cows from the farm, after which they initially left. 

    He alleged that one of them later ambushed him and carried out a brutal assault.

    “I saw them destroying my mother’s cassava, so I told them to take their cows away. They left, but later one of them laid an ambush for me. He butchered me. He cut my two hands and part of my face, including one eye. I was saved when a woman and a boy ran towards us,” he said.

    His mother, Mrs. Mary Fresh Efeurhobo, described the attack as horrifying and appealed to the government to urgently intervene to protect residents of the community.

    The incident has heightened fears over worsening insecurity in the area, coming just days after a young man was reportedly killed and beheaded by suspected herdsmen in the nearby Orhoakpor community.

    The development sparked a peaceful protest by women and youths, who declared a “no entry” order for herdsmen and warned residents against collaborating with them.

    Condemning the attack, the Forest Guard Service leader, Joseph Esegine, said residents had repeatedly raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the area.

    Tension reportedly remained high as some youths briefly mobilised to search for the suspect, raising fears of possible reprisal attacks before security agencies stepped in.

    Confirming the incident, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said investigations were ongoing.

    “Efforts are being intensified to apprehend the suspect and bring all those responsible to justice,” he assured.

    Meanwhile, the Justice of the Peace and Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., commended the youths and women of Kokori Inland for their restraint and peaceful conduct.

    Describing the attack as gruesome and regrettable, Oghenesivbe announced a personal donation of N100,000 to support the victim’s medical treatment and called on well-meaning individuals to assist in his recovery.

    He assured residents that the Delta State Government and Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, are aware of the incident and are working to ensure the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.

    Oghenesivbe also urged the Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Council, Chief Augustine Ogedegbe, to convene an emergency stakeholders’ meeting to develop intelligence-driven strategies to strengthen internal security and prevent future attacks.

  • Tinubu tasks AFCSC graduates to lead Nigeria’s security reforms

    Tinubu tasks AFCSC graduates to lead Nigeria’s security reforms

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged newly graduated officers of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, to take the lead in Nigeria’s ongoing security transformation, as the nation confronts evolving threats ranging from terrorism and insurgency to cyber warfare and climate-induced conflicts.

    The President gave the charge on Friday while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the Joint Graduation Ceremony of Senior Course 47 and Junior Course 100, held at the Major General Bulama Biu Parade Ground, Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State. 

    Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, Tinubu described the ceremony as a reaffirmation of the enduring values of discipline, patriotism and selfless service that define the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    Congratulating the graduating officers, the President said their successful completion of the rigorous courses reflected years of sacrifice, resilience and commitment to national duty. 

    According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the President noted that their graduation coincided with a critical period of transformation in the global and regional security environment, requiring a new generation of military leaders equipped with strategic insight and professional depth.

    “Graduating today at this critical juncture in our national and global history places upon you a solemn duty. Traditional and non-traditional threats, ranging from terrorism and insurgency to cyber warfare, maritime insecurity and climate-induced conflicts, continue to evolve in scope and complexity”, Tinubu said.

    He stressed that addressing these challenges would require more than courage and tactical proficiency, underscoring the need for strategic foresight, inter-agency collaboration, and strict adherence to democratic values and the rule of law. 

    According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, improving the welfare of the armed forces, and enhancing synergy among military, intelligence and civil institutions in the pursuit of peace and stability.

    The President also commended the Armed Forces Command and Staff College for its long-standing role as a centre of excellence, noting that the institution has produced officers who have provided leadership in peace and conflict situations within Nigeria and across international peacekeeping missions under ECOWAS, the African Union and the United Nations. 

    He said the college’s blend of academic rigour, field training and multinational collaboration had continued to strengthen the nation’s defence and security framework.

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modernising the Armed Forces, Tinubu said ongoing reforms were focused on upgrading training infrastructure, enhancing operational capabilities and improving the living conditions of officers and their families. 

    He explained that these efforts were part of a broader agenda to build a safe, stable and prosperous Nigeria.

    While emphasising unity within the military, the President reminded the graduating officers that they represent Nigeria’s diversity, bound together by a common oath to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

    He cautioned that misinformation, ethnic tension and divisive narratives pose serious risks to national cohesion, urging the Armed Forces to remain professional, impartial and loyal to constitutional authority to sustain public confidence.

    Charging the officers to see their graduation as a new beginning, Tinubu urged them to apply the leadership qualities, analytical skills and operational competence acquired at Jaji in service to the nation and humanity. 

    “Be bold in leadership, innovative in strategy and humble in service. Uphold integrity and discipline at all times, mentor those coming behind you, and never lose sight of the sacred trust the nation has placed in you,” he said.

    Other members of the presidential entourage at the ceremony included former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom; Senator Jack Gyado; Professor Iorwuese Hagher; General Benedict Williams (retd); and Air Vice Marshal James Gbum (retd).

  • IK Ogbonna, Rita Dominic defend ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ film amid CAN criticism 

    IK Ogbonna, Rita Dominic defend ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ film amid CAN criticism 

    Actor IK Ogbonna and actress Rita Dominic have reacted to criticism from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over the title of Ini Edo’s new film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas.’

    CAN had described the title as “offensive and disrespectful” to the Christian faith.

    In a statement on Instagram, Ogbonna clarified that the title was not meant to mock or disrespect Christianity, emphasising that he, the producer, and director are all Christians.

    He explained that the title draws inspiration from the popular Detty December culture and that the film carries deeper messages about love, forgiveness, and self-worth.

    Ogbonna, who played the role Frankie in the movie, appealed for the film to be judged beyond its title.

    He wrote, “In light of the recent statement by the Christian Association of Nigeria, I feel it’s important to speak from my place as a cast member in A Very Dirty Christmas, where I played the character Frankie.

    “Let me be very clear: the title of this movie was never meant to undermine the Christian faith — especially not our faith. I am a Christian. Many members of the cast are Christians. The producer is a Christian. The director is a Christian. At no point was this project created to mock, diminish, or disrespect the sacredness of Christmas.

    “I respect the Christian Association of Nigeria and understand the concerns raised. Conversations like this are important. My humble appeal is that we allow the full message of the film — not just the title — to speak for itself,” he said.

    Rita Dominic supported Ogbonna, urging Nigerians to watch the film before drawing conclusions.

    She wrote, “Artists have the right to creative expressions. It allows them to convey emotions, build worlds that capture the heart of the audience. A Very Dirty Christmas movie produced by Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason is nothing short of that. I think it’s important to watch the film first before drawing conclusions.

    “#AVeryDirtyChristmas is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Go watch with family/friends this holiday, be ready to have a good laugh and be thrilled!

    “Congrats once again to the entire cast and crew!”

    The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has engaged the film’s producers and requested a title modification to prevent offense.

  • How I battled depression, suicidal thoughts for three years – Juliana Olayode

    How I battled depression, suicidal thoughts for three years – Juliana Olayode

    Actress Juliana Olayode has opened up about her three-year battle with depression and suicidal thoughts, revealing she hid her pain.

    In an Instagram post, Olayode described how depression made her realise the importance of joy, as her body shut down and she gained weight.

    According to her, she tried therapy but found solace in her faith, crediting God with her complete healing.

    She wrote, “I was depressed and suicidal for almost three years. Of course, I showed up every day, as if I wasn’t struggling or dying inside.

    “Depression made me realise how much of a medicine joy is; my whole body was shutting down. I was diagnosed with a sort, and I gained so much, but still not as much as the weight I was carrying inside.

    “If you have never experienced depression, you might downplay what people go through when they’re depressed. If you have never been suicidal, you might think that those who take their life are selfish, whereas to them, it’s their only means of escape.

    Read Also: IK Ogbonna, Rita Dominic defend ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ film amid CAN criticism 

    “Therapy is great. I went to therapy too, but sometimes you need to return to your Maker for the perfect fix and guess what? It’s free. You need not pay a dime. You only have to be vulnerable with Him and say, “Fix me, Lord”.

    “I thank God for complete healing and wholeness. Shared this because of the numerous DMs of people going through depression and having suicidal thoughts.

    It is not the end! Don’t listen to that dark voice in your head. The sun will rise again. Give all your depressive and suicidal thoughts to God. Tell Him about everything. He’s going to help you. I promise you.

    “Vulnerable post, I feel you, I really feel you. Don’t do it, don’t do it! What you’re dealing with is common to man, to humanity, and to life.

    “If it’s happening to you, it’s because it can not consume you; it’s because you can come out of it. You think you have little or no strength for it, but inside of you lies so much strength and capacity to break free and come out whole.

    “God loves you, God wants you healed and alive. You need to go to him. Please believe me. Sending you prayers, warm hugs and love. 1 Corinthians 10:13, Daniel 3:27”.

  • BREAKING: INEC wades in, summons warring PDP factions to emergency meeting

    BREAKING: INEC wades in, summons warring PDP factions to emergency meeting

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has summoned the two rival factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to an emergency reconciliation meeting at its headquarters in Abuja.

    The meeting, which is currently ongoing, involves the faction led by former Minister Tanimu Turaki and the group backed by former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed.

    Read Also: Court stops APC, INEC from enforcing resolution against Cross River chairman

    Those in attendance with Turaki include members of his National Working Committee (NWC), officials of the party secretariat and former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu.

    On his part, Mohammed arrived with members of his national caretaker committee, including the committee’s secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu.

    Details shortly…

  • 2027: APC stakeholders take Renewed Hope message to Oyo federal constituency

    2027: APC stakeholders take Renewed Hope message to Oyo federal constituency

    Stakeholders in All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State said it would kickstart a grassroots tour next week Monday with Oyo Federal Constituency being the first point of call.

    The stakeholders also said similar exercise would hold in the remaining 13 federal constituencies as already planned.

    A statement jointly signed by Oyo APC Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, and the State Secretary of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Mr. Afeez Bolaji Repete, said the tour is part of effort of the party towards solidifying the reining peace and unity among members of the party across the state.

    The statement said the Federal Constituency tour, which is being organized by the Alhaji Olayide Abas-led State Executive Committee of APC and in conjunction with the Presidential Renewed Hope Ambassadors, is aimed at further cementing unity and peace among all party faithfu and also accessing the situation of the Party at the grassroots level.

    The party hinted that the statewide tour was in line with the decision of the stakeholders to visit all the nooks and crannies of the state to preach total reconciliation and to assure all members of sense of belonging.

    “This Monday meeting slated for the Oba Adeyemi Sports Arcade in Ode-Aremo, Oyo will be the second in the series of stakeholders open interactive session aimed at fostering unity and togetherness among all party faithful as we have all resolved to leave no stone unturned in order to achieve our collective goals as a progressive family. 

    “We appreciate the fact that APC is the party to beat at all elections in 2027 and we shall leave nothing to chances.

    “All leaders and gladiators will storm Oyo Federal Constituency on Monday to preach the gospel of Renewed Hope Agenda and also re-establish the need to begin the process of reclaiming power in the state in 2027. 

    “We shall mobilize all APC youths, women, students, artisans, elites among others in Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East and Oyo West local government councils for the purpose of the meeting which will attract the presence of party leaders, members and supporters from across the state and beyond.

    “Most importantly, the meeting will afford us the opportunity to showcase the achievements of the Tinubu administration as the President is poised to reposition the country and make every citizen proud at the end of his two terms in 2031. 

    “Undoubtedly, APC is waxing stronger in the state and now is the time to consolidate on the recent success as we are open to welcoming more members into our midst.”

  • Actor Jamiu Azeez apologises to Opeyemi Aiyeola over past mistakes

    Actor Jamiu Azeez apologises to Opeyemi Aiyeola over past mistakes

    Actor Jamiu Azeez has publicly apologised to his senior colleague, Opeyemi Aiyeola, expressing deep regret for his past actions and seeking forgiveness.

    In a statement on Instagram, Azeez referred to Aiyeola as his mother, sister, confidant, and benefactor, acknowledging the pain he caused her.

    He stated that he is openly apologising for his misdeeds, tearfully recalling the hurt he inflicted on Aiyeola.

    Azeez emphasised Aiyeola’s importance in his life, citing her roles as his second mummy, confidant, and number one fan.

    He expressed missing her and the relationship they shared, asking who would take her place in his life and fulfill various roles she currently fills.

    He wrote, “Opeyemi iyadunni mi atata, my mother, my sister, my confidant, my benefactor, ejika mi, alaanu mi, aunty mi, ore mi. With tears and regrets, I am openly putting this out to apologize for my misdeeds, i can never write my story without your name boldly written, infact your name will appear in every page of my story. I know you love me so much, I know I hurt you deeply and the cut was so deep. But please forgive me for the sake of God, i am that “house” which u built

    “I know that I acted so childish and I am sincerely sorry for everything. If u dont forgive me, who is going to take your place in my life? Who is going to stand as my second mummy on my wedding day? Who is going to scold me when I do something wrong? Who else is going to cheer me up if not you Iyadunni? Who is going to be my number one fan? The truth is “I miss you so much” I miss us. Please forgive me ma, I am so sorry for everything ma”.

  • Passion for music, consistency earned me ‘Next Rated Artist of the Year Award’ – Larry G

    Passion for music, consistency earned me ‘Next Rated Artist of the Year Award’ – Larry G

    Liberian music artiste, Elvis D. Saywon, popularly known as Larry G, said his passion for music and consistency earned him the ‘2025 Next Rated Artist of the Year Award’.

    He said the award showed that the hard work, sleepless nights, and passion he put into his music are being recognised.

    Speaking with journalists, Larry G said consistency has been his focus because he believed growth comes from staying dedicated and disciplined. 

    According to him, “Being young gives me the energy and hunger to keep pushing, and I’m learning every day. I see this as encouragement to keep improving and to represent Liberian music positively.

    ‎”Music has always been my way of expressing myself and telling my story. I was inspired by my life experiences, the struggles around me, and the artists I grew up listening to. Music gives me a voice and a way to connect with people, inspire others, and share real emotions.”

    Born on November 23, 2003, in Nimba County, Liberia, Larry G’s journey into music began long before he stepped onto the national stage. 

    His blend of rhythm, emotion, and authenticity positions him as one of the leading voices of Liberia’s new musical generation. Larry G’s rapid ascent earned him significant recognition that same year. 

    He received a nomination for “Next Rated Artist of the Year” at the prestigious MTN Liberia Music Awards, ultimately taking home the win. 

    He was also nominated at the Paynesville Entertainment Awards (PEA), further affirming his impact on Liberia’s entertainment scene. 

    With official releases including “My Time,” “Wicked People,” and “Lonely Soja,” Larry G continues to showcase his versatility and dedication to his craft. His blend of rhythm, emotion, and authenticity positions him as one of the leading voices of Liberia’s new musical generation.