The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • UNICEF targets over 2m children, rolls out polio campaign in Katsina

    UNICEF targets over 2m children, rolls out polio campaign in Katsina

    The United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) kicked off a major polio vaccination campaign aimed at protecting 2.8 million children under five across 361 wards in Katsina State.

    During the flag off campaign in Katsina,UNICEF called for stronger media involvement and community mobilisation to ensure no child is missed in the statewide exercise.

    Mr. Rahama M. Farah, Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, praised the state for its impressive 90 percent performance in recent rounds and the drastic reduction of confirmed paralysis cases—limited to Danmusa LGA. 

    He said: ”UNICEF’s renewed engagement with journalists reflects their crucial role in shaping public trust and helping parents understand the life-saving value of the vaccine.” 

    Farah also appealed to radio stations, especially those covering remote communities, to ramp up sensitisation campaigns, noting that radio remains the most trusted communication channel for rural families. 

    He reminded parents that routine immunisation is available every day at primary health centres and should be fully utilised.

    While noting that the Global Polio Eradication Initiative has made major breakthroughs, Farah warned that polio remains “a borderless threat,” stressing that any lingering case poses a risk to all states.

     He urged Katsina to sustain at least 95 percent vaccination coverage and ensure timely release of local government funds to keep field teams active.

    Representing the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Primary Health Care Agency, Dr. Mukhtar Mahmud reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding children. 

    He informed the current campaign includes added child and maternal health services such as vitamin A supplements, deworming tablets, azithromycin, routine immunisation, and support for pregnant women. Door-to-door, fixed post and mobile teams have already been deployed across all LGAs.

    UNICEF and state officials appealed to parents to complete all required vaccine doses for children aged 0–15 months, emphasising that full immunisation remains the strongest shield against polio. LGAs were encouraged to intensify community mobilisation to dispel misinformation and reassure families of the vaccine’s safety.

    With over 3,700 personnel including nearly 2,000 house-to-house and special teams,the exercise is  expected to markets, motor parks, remote villages, and hard-to-reach settlements.

     Development partners and state authorities were commended for sustained investment in logistics, training and community health systems.

    Goodwill messages were delivered by Ambassador Aminu Muhammad, National Consultant and State Polio Lead at the EOC Katsina, and Dr. Sulaiman Haladu of the Polio Emergency Programme, both stressing the need for cooperation among parents, traditional leaders and local councils to ensure no child is left behind.

    Vaccination teams have since begun trekking into remote communities, reinforcing Katsina’s resolve to stamp out polio once and for all.

  • Adegoke bags ‘Digital GreenTalents Award 2025’ in Germany

    Adegoke bags ‘Digital GreenTalents Award 2025’ in Germany

    A Nigerian scientist conducting research at Arizona State University (ASU), Adesola Adegoke has been honored with the ‘2025 Digital Green Talents Award’ by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space.

    With the award, Adegoke has joined an elite group of young researchers addressing global sustainability challenges. 

    Adegoke’s research at ASU’s Salifu Lab explores mycelium, the thread-like root structure of mushrooms, as an alternative construction material. 

    Since 2009, the Green Talents Award has recognised young researchers for their contributions to sustainability. 

    The German Federal Ministry for Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) organise the Digital Green Talents Award to promote the international exchange of innovative ideas in digitalization and sustainability.

    Read Also: CREO wins PR Agency of the Year at 2025 Nigerian Marketing Awards

    Adesola bagged the award during a virtual ceremony on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, as part of the Digital Green Tech Network Conference in Berlin. 

    He was selected alongside 19 other young scientists from countries including India, Indonesia, Canada, Vietnam, and Singapore.

    Dr. Rainer Müssner of the Division for Circular Economy, Resources, and Geoscience at the German Federal Ministry for Research, Technology, and Space, presented the awards and emphasized the program’s collaborative approach. 

    “We are very much convinced that projects won’t change the world, but the only ones that can change the world are people, bright minds like you who are spread all over the world.”

    Adegoke receiving the award from Dr. Rainer Müssner of the German Federal Ministry for Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) during the virtual ceremony.

    During the ceremony, members of the expert jury spoke about the awardees’ research and expressed confidence that their work will provide solutions to pressing global challenges through digitalization and sustainability.

    The distinguished jury comprised leading professionals from academia, research, and industry, including the Secretary General of Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (Europe’s largest environmental foundation), the General Manager of Siemens AG’s Global Water Industry, a Professor and Chair of Artificial Intelligence in Climate and Environmental Sciences at Karlsruhe Institute for Technology, a Senior Researcher from the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence, and the Head of Innovation Hub at REMONDIS Digital Services.

    Adegoke said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. This award validates not just my research, but the capability of bio-based solutions in addressing some of our most pressing global sustainability challenges.”

    The award includes a fully funded three-month research placement at a German institution in 2026. Adegoke will also participate in a Summer School near Frankfurt from June 21 to 27, 2026, where he will connect with fellow awardees and established researchers in the field.

    Adegoke views the German placement as an opportunity to strengthen international scientific partnerships.

    He said, “During my German residency, I will collaborate with top-tier research institutions, strengthening crucial scientific partnerships between the United States and Germany in sustainable development.

    “I envision a future in which infrastructure development serves as a driver of environmental restoration rather than a source of degradation. I am committed to establishing sustainable materials as viable mainstream solutions for civil engineering projects worldwide.”

  • Islamic scholar urges Tinubu to prioritise security, warns against divisive narratives

    Islamic scholar urges Tinubu to prioritise security, warns against divisive narratives

    The Founder of Markaz-ul-Uloom School of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Sheikh (Dr.) Tunde Abbas Abdul-Azeez has urged President Bola Tinubu to make national security his foremost priority, warning that Nigeria’s security challenges are being driven by elements operating within the system.

    He made the call during the 40th anniversary of the institution, themed “Markaz-ul-Uloom: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” held recently in Lagos.

    Sheikh Abdul-Azeez said insecurity persists because the sponsors and handlers of terrorist groups have infiltrated government structures.

    He appealed to both President Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intensify efforts toward securing the country, praying for peace and stability.

    Responding to recent statements by foreign leaders suggesting religious persecution in Nigeria, he stressed that victims of violence cut across all faiths.

    “There is no genocide in Nigeria. The terrorists are killing Christians, Muslims, and non-Muslims alike,” he said, urging religious leaders and citizens to reject divisive narratives and uphold tolerance.

    He encouraged Nigerians to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, adding, “Let us be our own security.”

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Olisa Metuh at 60, describes him as a voice of reason

    He urged religious leaders and citizens not to allow divisive narratives to tear the nation apart, emphasising Islam’s teachings on tolerance.

    “These people are not Muslims because the Qur’an forbids the killing of innocent souls,” he added.

    The scholar encouraged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their environment by reporting suspicious activities and supporting security agencies.

    “Let us be our own security. If you observe a strange move, report to security agents. We have to help our police and the military with information,” he said.

    He noted that Lagos remains relatively peaceful, which he credited for enabling the institution to hold its anniversary celebration without incident.

    Speaking on Markaz-ul-Uloom’s progress over the past four decades, Sheikh Abdul-Azeez highlighted the school’s impact on moral and academic development.

    “Our major achievements in this institution are turning out pious, morally and academically sound graduates. This is our modest and humble achievement,” he said.

  • Gwarzo mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, condoles family, Bauchi Govt

    Gwarzo mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, condoles family, Bauchi Govt

    The Founder MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has expressed deep shock over the death of the great Islamic scholar,  Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi who passed away on Thursday, 27th November, 2025.

    In a condolence in Kano- Nigeria on Friday, Prof. Gwarzo expressed his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased.

    Gwarzo said the death of the Islamic scholar was a great loss not only to his family, but to Muslim Ummah and Nigeria at large. 

    Read Also: Bauchi declares Friday work-free to honour late Dahiru Bauchi

    “We really lost a respected and great Islamic scholar who spent his life in teaching and preaching. The cleric would continue to be remembered by his followers not only in Nigeria but across African continent.

    “Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was an epitome of peace and scholarship who always promoted peaceful coexistence, tolerance and unity among people wherever he went.

    “On behalf of the MAAUN Group of Universities, I wish to extend our condolences to the family of the deceased and his followers in Nigeria and beyond,” the statement said.

    Prof. Gwarzo also extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Bauchi State over the great loss, praying to Allah to forgive the deceased and comfort his family especially during this period of grief. 

    He also prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the late Islamic scholar Aljannah Firdaus and his family the fortitude to bear the great loss 

    The Islamic scholar who left behind four wives, many children and grandchildren, had since been buried in Bauchi.

  • Insecurity: Reps begin probe of 460 million dollars Abuja CCTV project

    Insecurity: Reps begin probe of 460 million dollars Abuja CCTV project

    The House of Representatives has commenced an investigation into the utilisation of the 460 million dollars loan for the CCTV project in Abuja, with assurances of collaboration from the Ministry of Finance, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the Debt Management Office.

    The Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, said that the House cannot afford to sit back and watch as the security of Nigerians is compromised, but will deploy legislative means to address the rising insecurity in the country.

    Abbas, who spoke while inaugurating the special ad hoc committee to investigate rising insecurity and loss of several lives in the FCT despite the CCTV project secured with a Chinese loan of 460 million dollars, said the House intends to find out the state of the project and where the money went.

    He said that despite the huge investment, crimes of kidnapping and robbery occur with frequent loss of lives and property, turning the city into a nightmare for residents.

    The Speaker said, “We have convened in this hallowed chamber to see how we can finally bring to an end the grave concern and collective anguish of the people we represent, especially those currently resident in the federal capital territory, which has seen more than its fair share of violent crimes.

    “The alarming and unprecedented rise in insecurity in the nation’s capital is both unacceptable and intolerable. It commands urgent, decisive attention.

    “It is sad and shameful that the city that has earned a reputation for itself as one of the most peaceful, most elegant, and most organized cities in West Africa, is now transformed into a haven for hoodlums and other nefarious characters.

    “Nearly every other day, crimes of kidnapping and robbery occur with frequent loss of lives and property, turning the city into a nightmare for residents.

    “Let me remind us that the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is more than just a city. It is the symbol of our national unity, the heart of our democracy, and the face of Nigeria to the world. When insecurity festers here, it strikes at the very core of our nation’s sovereignty and shatters the sense of safety that should be the bare minimum expected by every citizen and resident”.

    The Speaker lamented that the situation is compounded by a deeply troubling paradox, adding that “this House, in exercising its constitutional duty of oversight, is acutely aware of the substantial investments made to secure our capital. Paramount among these is the Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) project, a sophisticated security infrastructure secured with a Chinese loan of Four hundred and Sixty Million Dollars ($460M).

    “The fundamental question that has compelled the establishment of this Ad-hoc Committee is one that every Nigerian is asking: Why, despite this colossal investment, are our citizens still being terrorized, kidnapped, and killed in the FCT? Where is the digital shield that $460 million was meant to erect? Where is the deterrence, the intelligence-gathering capability, and the operational leverage that this project promised?

    Speaker Abbas said further that it is not just a question of financial probity, but one that borders on national security and public trust, saying “the Nigerian people deserve answers. They deserve to know if these funds have been effectively deployed or tragically squandered.

    “They deserve to know if the system is operational and merely underutilized, or if it has been crippled by technical failures, inadequate maintenance, or worse, sheer negligence and mismanagement.”

    Turning to members of the Committee, the Speaker said, “You have been entrusted with a sacred mandate. Your task is not to witch-hunt, but to uncover the truth.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, your terms of reference include conducting a thorough and forensic investigation into the status of the $460 million CCTV project; determining its operational capacity, functionality, and integration with the security architecture in the FCT. And ascertain why this project has not yielded the desired result of stemming the tide of criminality in the Federal Capital Territory.

    It also include to Identify any acts of impropriety, incompetence, or sabotage, and hold all responsible agencies or individuals accountable, provide actionable recommendations for the immediate activation, completion, or overhaul of this critical security asset and determine why there has been such a significant rise in crime in Abuja and why the police and other security agencies have not been able to cope with the situation.

    He said Heads of government agencies invited for the investigation should see it as a clarion call to act, a collective challenge that demands cooperation and constructive support.

    He said, “It is imperative that you give the committee every assistance it needs to get to the root of this matter. It is both your civic duty and a constitutional obligation. We expect full disclosure, unfettered access, and transparent engagement.

    “As for our revered Traditional Rulers, who are the closest to the people, we need their help now more than ever before. We urge you, respectfully, to continue to foster community cooperation and intelligence-sharing with our security agencies. Your roles as stabilizers and trusted intermediaries are invaluable, and the National Assembly is determined to formalise those roles and make you secure from undue influence”.

    He said the House will not stand idly by while the safety of Nigerians is compromised, but will deploy every legislative instrument at its disposal to ensure that the investigation is conducted and concluded, while its findings lead to tangible, lasting results.

    He said, “We owe a huge debt to the victims of these heinous attacks, the families living in fear, and to every Nigerian who looks to us for protection and leadership. The best way to repay that debt is through decisive action, rigorous oversight, and an unwavering commitment to restoring security and accountability”.

    Chairman of the committee, Donald Ojogo (APC, Ondo), lamented that Abuja, the nation’s seat of power, is “tragically transforming into a theatre of fear, where the echoes of gunshots and the anguish of kidnap victims have replaced the quiet hum of normal life”.

    He said the rising incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and brutal killings are not mere statistics as they represent a profound national concern and a personal tragedy for countless families. Communities are now paralyzed by fear, and the very social fabric of our capital is unravelling at the seams.

    He said, “What elevates this crisis from tragedy to scandal of monumental proportions is the stark paradox at its core: this relentless wave of terror crashes upon us despite a massive investment—a Chinese loan of Four Hundred and Sixty Million United States Dollars ($460,000,000)secured for the singular purpose of creating an impregnable security shield for the FCT.

    “This was no ordinary initiative. It was a flagship project, a critical layer in our national security architecture, promised to be the ever-watchful eye over our capital—a digital sentinel designed to deter crime, empower our security forces, and ensure that perpetrators face the justice they deserve.

    “Every life lost in the FCT stains our national conscience. Every dollar squandered on this failed project is a resource wasted on the violation of our resolve for national development. We owe the grieving families answers. We owe Nigerian taxpayers accountability. We owe the nation both the restoration of safety and the reaffirmation of justice”. 

  • Davido’s momentum continues with another Grammy nomination and partnership with Stake

    Davido’s momentum continues with another Grammy nomination and partnership with Stake

    Nigerian American afrobeat superstar Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, excels in the world of music with his infectious sound and global influence, and is arguably one of the most recognisable faces in the African artist world. His artistic identity is uniquely shaped by his upbringing in Atlanta and Lagos respectively, with his sound effectively joining together the rhythmic and melodic jams familiar in African compositions, with the mainstream pop influences of the West; boosting the presence of African music and increasing exposure to it, which has meant his vibrant music is played and enjoyed worldwide.

    So what’s he been up to? Davido’s flying high with cause for celebration as he enters his milestone era, securing another Grammy nomination, along with entering in an exciting partnership with Stake. The Grammy is a serious hats down moment and justly reflects his artistic credibility; sheer talent, perseverance and drive required to not only endure but come out at the top of a rather saturated music market. Not to mention, his brand is expanding, as the partnership with Stake merges his music with tech driven entertainment.

    What’s his story?

    His story begins in Atlanta, but most of his life took place in Lagos, raised by an affluent and influential family. Regardless, Davido pushed aside the traditional ideals and expectations, carving his own path; in music. It was during his brief studies in the U.S. that his interest in production and songwriting sprouted, motivating him, once back in Nigeria, to build his career from the ground up.

    ‘Demi Duro’ was the breakout single that threw him into the charts and helped him became a cultural sensation in Nigeria. With his discography naturally expanding, new massive hits were born such as ‘Fall, If, Risky’ and ‘FIA, propelling not only Afrobeats into the global spotlight but also his name, establishing him as a fresh and charismatic artist. Intuitively his sound evolved going from raw Afropop to a refined and cultivated synthesis of R&B, global pop and of course, afrobeats.

    Major albums such as ‘Omo Baba Olowo’, ‘A Good Time’, “Timeless”, ‘A better time’ and ‘Sive’ are prime examples of the growth of Davido as an artist and producer, as these projects have seen millions of streams and have been placed on international charts; all of which has earned him several awards.

    This Grammy, however special still, isn’t Davido’s first rodeo; his first time at the event being couple years back, earning a solid 3 nominations in the following categories:

    Best Global Music Performance, Best Global Album, and Best African Music Performance.

    What a recognition that is! What further proof could one need that he is excelling in transforming the mainstream scene and goes to show his artistic evolution is supported worldwide; reaffirming Acrobeats as a global force!

    Another breakthrough moment is currently ongoing as his latest nomination, ‘With you’ ft Omah Lay, is a serious contender for Best African Music Performance. This dynamic and emotionally rich trach track has been continuously praised and celebrated by fans not only its musical craftsmanship and, but also for Davido’s resilience and consistency in this competitive Grammy landscape.

    In fact, Davido has gone one step further this year as he was invited to join as a member of the the voting team for Recording Academy. A role placing him as a key decision maker, among others within  the Grammy process; a fantastic achievement and recognition as an artist shaping the global music culture.

    These nominations well reflect the breakthrough Afrobeats is having in the circuits of Western music and award ceremonies. The specific categories too creates a dedicated platform offering further African artists to global audiences; so his recognition is a significant contribution to the momentum of this era, expanding into festivals, shows and charts worldwide. Such achievement inspires a whole new generation of such melodies to look forward to and enjoy.

    Behind the Scenes: Davido`s work ethic, studio process and why he makes hits

    One of the least discussed aspects of Davido`s success is his relentless work ethic, a quality that has managed to push a lot of artist on top, and has defined his growth from a young producer in Atlanta to one of Africa`s most dominant global stars.While his public image is often tied to his character, the engine behind his career is a disciplined, almost obsessive approach to making music.Those who worked with him often describe him as a “studio machine”.

    For Davido, as mentioned, music is not just a profession;it`s a lifestyle.Producers who worked with him mention that he rarely works alone.The studio is always filled with writers, producers, friends, management team members and their entourages.For everyone, this would be a distraction, but for Davido, it fuels his creativity, because he gets feedback from people in an instant, managing to adjust melodies and flows in his songs.

    Davido is a self taught producer and this fame didn`t appear overnight.As a teenager, he would spend countless hours learning digital audio workstations, experimenting with beats and studying how rhythm and melody interact.One of his defining traits in his workflow is speed.He is known for making hooks and verses in mere minutes, because he captures the feeling of the moment, trusting his instics and musical intuition which aligns perfectly with Afrobeats vibrant and rhythmic DNA.

    Davido is a type of artist that rarely complicates things, he makes music in which the listener can sing back in one listening and feel melodic excellence.Beyond his talent in music, Davido is very open to collaborating with other artists, because he respects the power of combining creative minds.Throughout the years, he managed to build strong connections with other producers on the scene, and this philosophy has allowed him to explore more diverse sounds;from highlife and amapiano to dancehall, R&B and global pop;while maintaining consistency in his identity.

    Davido`s Partnership with Stake.com

    Stake.com is an online platform that combines sports betting, casino games and interactive entertainment.It is primarily known for its forward looking branding and commitment to blending gaming with pop culture.It markets itself heavily in the global entertainment business and betting space, and has struck partnerships with major sports and music figures to widen it`s audience and reach.Davido is one of ifs marquee ambassadors.

    In the official announcement, Stake described Davido as a global ambassador , which you can check here, emphasizing his energy, creativity and star figure power.Understanding the significance of both Davido`s Grammy journey and his Stake.com alliance requires seeing how they amplify each other. Here are the key facts about this partnership;

    1.   Brand Vision

    Davido`s brand image is rooted in ambition, global influence and engaging experiences.Stake`s mission to “revolutionize the world of entertainment and online betting” dovetails with his image.

    Both parties don`t see this deal as just another transaction, but rather a long term creative relationship that blends entertainment, music and interactive culture.

    2.   Fan Engagement  & Reach

    As part of the deal, Stake promises to fans immersive campaigns, live viewing experiences and exclusive giveaways.

    For fans, this means more than just seeing Davido`s face on the stage;this means that fans get the taste of his music mixed with Stake`s digital ecosystem.

    Stake runs a special offer code tied directly to Davido, encouraging sing ups on the website and engagement, a common ambassador designet marketing strategy.

    These advertising campaigns can leverage Davido`s already huge reach, while giving Stake a culturally relevant ambassador to connect with younger global audiences.

    3.   Cultural Impact

    For Stake, affirming itself with one of Afrobeats biggest stars gives cultural legitimacy and helps expand into other markets that Davido influences heavily(primarily Africa, countries like Nigeria, West Africa and the diaspora).

    For Davido, of course this partnership represents a savvy business expansion;he`s not just another artist, he is a legitimate brand, and aligning with Stake gives him access to new revenue streams, primarily in digital and entertainment sectors.

    While this partnership is powerful, it comes with certain risks.First and foremost, betting and gambling platforms are subject to many strict regulations in many countries, and depending on where Stake operates, there may be legal or public relations challenges.

    Moreover, as an artist, Davido must balance his personal interests with his public image.Associating with a betting platform can bring negative attention from fans or communities that are not so keen on gambling.For such partnerships to remain stable, they need to go far and beyond with their immersive campaings, so that fans could positivly react on this deal long term.

    Leveraging Music, Technology and Brand Power: The new business model behind Davido`s success

    Davido`s rise from a Lagos prospect to a global cultural force is often associated with his talent, charisma and hit making ability.In today`s fast evolving entertainment landscape, an artist`s longevity depends not only on artistic output but also on their ability to innovate in the way they distribute music, engage with fans and monetize their influence and reach.From early in his journey, he understood that music alone won`t be enough.He began his mastery of social media in the early 2010s which helped him expand beyong Nigerian audiences and reach global fanbase long before Afrobeats explosion in popularity.Through consistent engagement and digitaly storytelling, he managed to build a loyaly digitaly community that now spans continets.

    This digital savviness set the stage for later expansions.As streaming became more popluar, he flocked the catalogues on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack and Boomplay.He adapted early to the logic of data driven music distribution, ensuring for example his releases were optimized for global discoverability.His 2023 album Timeless is a good example with replay value and algorithm friendly compostions.The fact that it became one of the most streamed Afrobeats albums is no coincidence;it was crafted with a clear understanding of how modern digital ecosystems work.

    His understanding of tech of course extends beyond music distribution itself.His partnership with Stake.com is a new chapter in the convergence of entertainment and digital platforms.Unlike traditional endorsement deals, the Stake partnership positions Davido as part of a broader strategy to merge entertainment, betting technology and celebrity driven engagement.Together, they tap into a rapidly growing market where digital entertainment and lifestlye branding overlap.Also, he entered Recording Academy as a voting member which shows that he wants to insert himself into the institutional and infrastructural side of the music industry, which allows him to nurture new talent, participate in rights ownership and influence the global music economy.As such, Davido represents a new model for African music entrepreneurship.Within this model, music becomes both an art form and a main engine powering ventures across technology, branding, lifestyle and cultural representation.

    Additionally, beyond his music and global partnerships, his reputation as one of Africa’s most generous and community focused artists precedes him. With his philanthropic contributions through both direct or indirect support, such as: medical bill payments, children’s hospital donations and direct family assistance for those in need. In fact, Davido most notoriously asked for one wish for his birthday; to raise money for donation. He then publicly raised ₦200 million from his fan base, while of course topping it all of by adding additional millions of his own money; all of which was donated to orphanages across Nigeria. Some could argue this is all about public image, but Davido’s approach to giving is more than just symbolic, as his transparency and consistency reflects his personal commitment to community work, truly rooted in a desire to uplift people. It’s refreshing to see young and talented artists using their talents, respect and influence for more than just fame; but have meaningful impact through not only music, but also philanthropic efforts.

    If Davido’s already successful and ever growing popularity, influence and platform in various, yet connecting, industries like music, charity and tech partnerships is any indicator of how well and steady things are growing, the future is clearly bright and full of Afrobeats! His restyling and innovation of the digital and musical landscape is going strong, and alongside this exciting partnership with Stake, who knows what the possibility could hold? Could we see a shift and reshaping of the entertainment business in Africa, blending music with gaming, crypto, digital marketing and more? We will soon find out!

  • Alleged rights violation: Appeal Court strikes out Nnamdi Kanu’s case against DSS’ DG, AGF

    Alleged rights violation: Appeal Court strikes out Nnamdi Kanu’s case against DSS’ DG, AGF

    The Court of Appeal in Abuja has struck out the appeal filed by terrorism convict Nnamdi Kanu of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), ruling that it lacked merit and had become academic following his conviction by a Federal High Court on November 20.

    Delivering judgment on Friday, a three-member panel of the appellate court held that Kanu’s claims alleging violations of his fundamental rights, including human dignity, access to quality health care, and freedom of religion, could no longer stand in light of his conviction, life imprisonment sentence, and subsequent remand in prison custody.

    In the lead judgment, Justice Boloukuromo Moses Ugo noted that since Kanu’s lawyer, Maxwell Opara, confirmed at the start of proceedings that his client was being held at Sokoto prison, the court could not grant his request to be transferred from the Department of State Services (DSS) facility to Kuje prison.

    Justice Ugo added that because Kanu had previously expressed a preference for prison custody, his prayers could no longer be considered after his conviction and transfer to the correctional facility where he had sought to be kept.

    The judgment was on Kanu’s appeal against the July 3 judgment by Justice Taiwo Taiwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja (now retired), which earlier dismissed his fundamental rights enforcement suit on the grounds that he failed to prove his case.

    Listed as respondents in the appeal were the Director General of the DSS, DSS, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: EFCC summons ex-AGF Malami

    JUST IN: EFCC summons ex-AGF Malami

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, for questioning.

    Malami served as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice from 2015 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Malami announced the development on his Facebook page on Friday, confirming that he had received a formal invitation from the anti-graft agency.

    “I would like to inform my family and friends that I have been summoned by the EFCC to provide clarification on certain matters, and as a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I am determined to honour this invitation without any hesitation,” he wrote.

    Read Also: Sylva writes EFCC, seeks date for appearance

    The former minister reiterated his commitment to the principles of honesty, integrity, and accountability, which he said guided his years in public service.

    “I believe in the importance of honesty, integrity, and accountability in governance; these are principles that I have long supported and upheld over the years of my public service,” he added.

    Malami also stated that he would keep Nigerians informed of any developments that may arise from the invitation.

  • Insecurity: Southwest APC warns saboteurs, seeks collaborative effort to end menace

    Insecurity: Southwest APC warns saboteurs, seeks collaborative effort to end menace

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South West has urged Nigerians to unite in tackling the growing security challenges across the country, warning those allegedly aiding insecurity to desist from sabotaging national efforts.

    The zonal leadership called on all stakeholders to urgently develop practical strategies to address the rising incidents of killings, kidnapping, and other organised crimes reported in parts of the country.

    In a statement issued by the APC South West Zonal Publicity Secretary, Ayobami Afolabi, the party attributed the worsening situation to individuals within and outside the system who do not wish the nation well.

    Afolabi commended the federal government and affected state governors for their swift and coordinated response, which he said contributed to the timely rescue of victims recently abducted during the attacks.

    “In recent times, there has been an increase in cases of violent attacks against some innocent citizens, especially in the northern part of the country, and the patterns of these reported incidents were similar.

    “This validated the opinion of many pundits who had established the fact that cases of terrorism, banditry, and related crimes in Nigeria were being sponsored from within and outside for political and economic interests.

    “To this end, every patriotic citizen must rise to the challenge in their private and official capacity. There is no economic or political status desired by any individual or group that is worth the lives of innocent people who fall victim to violent attacks, as the situation calls for collaborative efforts and decisive actions from those in power and the rest of the citizenry.

    “State governors have to encourage and empower community-based security outfits to complement the efforts of federal security agencies, while residents should help in the area of intelligence gathering.

    “Undoubtedly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is poised to deliver his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda to benefit all parts of the country as well as every citizen and resident of Nigeria. We should not play into the hands of those who do not wish our country well.

    “With the latest declaration of state of emergency on security and the directive on mass recruitment into the Army and Police Force by the president, sponsors of insecurity and their agents should have a rethink as all saboteurs would have themselves to blame.”

  • Tinubu felicitates Olubaka of Oka-Akoko on Ihare festival, 82nd birthday

    Tinubu felicitates Olubaka of Oka-Akoko on Ihare festival, 82nd birthday

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko in Ondo State, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, as the ancient Ihare festival coincides with the monarch’s 82nd birthday.

    In a statement issued on Friday by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined the people of Oka-Akoko and the entire Ondo State in celebrating the revered traditional ruler, describing him as a man of dignity, principle, and courage.

    The Ihare festival, slated for November 29, marks the initiation of selected individuals into the elders’ council and serves as the climax of the cultural ceremonies honouring the respected monarch’s birthday.

    President Tinubu highlighted Olubaka’s rich legacy of service, noting that before ascending the throne in 1987, Oba Adeleye enjoyed a distinguished career in the Lagos State judiciary, rising through all judicial divisions to become a Chief Magistrate.

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    The President also recalled the monarch’s national service as a pioneer member of the National Council of Traditional Rulers, his representation of Nigeria as Amirul Hajj to Saudi Arabia on three occasions, and his leadership roles as former chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas and pioneer chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University.

    Describing him as a Renaissance monarch, President Tinubu praised Oba Adeleye’s integrity and fatherly leadership, recalling the monarch’s wise counsel during the 2022/2023 presidential campaign.

    He prayed for many more peaceful and prosperous years on the throne for Olubaka and wished him a joyous birthday and a fulfilling Ihare festival.