The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • APC chieftain gives 1,000 free JAMB forms to admission seekers in Osun West district 

    APC chieftain gives 1,000 free JAMB forms to admission seekers in Osun West district 

    No fewer than 1,000 admission seekers in Osun West Senatorial district have benefited from the free Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms from a leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Peter Ogundeji. 

    Ogundeji, who hinged his decision on his effort to ease the financial burden on candidates and boost access to tertiary education among grassroots students. 

    The 2027 Senate hopeful during his visit to his hometown, Ola community, Ward 6 in Ejigbo local government area of Osun State for the continuous house-to-house awareness for the guber candidate of the party, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO).  

    Chief Ogundeji, stated, “I am giving out free JAMB forms for 1,000 students in this Senatorial district and I pledge to sponsor qualified students from 100 level to final year in tertiary institutions, covering courses such as Nursing, Geometric Survey and other critical disciplines.

    “This gesture is part of my efforts to complement the Federal government effort to increase enrollment of youths in school. The administration of President Bola Tinubu has introduced several initiative for youths like student loans and we as partymen must also help in our own little way.”

    Speaking about the awareness, tagged ‘Apata for AMBO walk-to-live’  he said “the primary purpose of the exercise was to mobilise massive grassroots support for the APC governorship candidate, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, ahead of the August 8 governorship election.”

    Read Also: Edo APC, Odigie-Oyegun trade words over ‘indebtedness’

    He urged eligible voters without a Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to promptly visit the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices for registration.

    APC leader in Ola Town, Chief James Oladoye, expressed confidence that if Ogundeji is elected as a senator for the district in 2027, he would do more as he has empowered youths when he was a private citizen. 

    The Olola of Ola, Oba Johnson Oyewale Ajiboye, commended Chief Ogundeji for his positive contributions to community development and assured him of the unwavering support of his subjects, while offering prayers for his success in the upcoming elections.

  • Adeleke, Sultan commission Minaret University in Osun

    Adeleke, Sultan commission Minaret University in Osun

    The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, alongside the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially commissioned Minaret University, Ikirun, a tertiary institution founded by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at.

    Speaking at the commissioning ceremony and the investiture of the university’s pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abdullah Abdur-Rahman, Governor Adeleke emphasized the transformative power of education, noting that a well-informed population is far stronger than one that relies solely on force.

    He highlighted that the establishment of the faith-based university further enhances Osun State’s reputation as a leading centre of learning and scholarship in Nigeria.

    Adeleke added that the inauguration of the private university reflects the intellectual capacity of the Osun people, stressing that an educated society cannot be easily subjugated, coerced, or denied its constitutional rights.

    “Osun will continue to advance in scholarship and good governance. Our sons and daughters will continue to make the state proud locally and internationally. Never shall Osun retrogress; the clock of advancement will continue to tick in our favour.”

    Read Also: Adeleke’s wife distributes N25million Remi Tinubu business grant to traders

    In his address, the Chancellor of Minaret University, Barrister Azeez Alatoye, said the institution came up at a time when Nigeria grapples with profound social, economic, and moral challenges, adding that the university is positioned to respond to the challenges through quality teaching, relevant research, innovation, and community engagement.

    Alatoye said the university commences academic activities with programmes in Data Science, Information Technology, Computer Science, Cyber Security, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, Marketing, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management.

    Speaking after his investiture, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Abdullah Abdur-Rahman, said the mission is to turn the university into a world-class tertiary institution, saying, “I envision a university that is entrepreneurial, inclusive, and globally competitive. Our mission is to become a world-class tertiary institution for the intellectual and manpower development of human resources for sustainable socio-economic development regionally, nationally and internationally.”

    The representative of the Sultan, Prof Abdullateef Abass joined other dignitaries to inaugurate the varsity.

  • RULAAC calls for stronger police-media collaboration to rebuild public trust

    RULAAC calls for stronger police-media collaboration to rebuild public trust

    The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has emphasized the urgent need for enhanced collaboration between the Nigeria Police and the media to restore public confidence and improve policing outcomes across the country.

    RULAAC Executive Director, Mr. Okechukwu Nwanguma, made the remarks during a One-Day Police and Media Dialogue Session in Enugu, noting that effective policing in a democracy cannot exist without public trust.

    He highlighted that the relationship between the police and the public remains fragile due to years of corruption, brutality, weak accountability, and poor service delivery.

    “Most citizens form their perception of the police through personal encounters and media reports, making the media a key partner in policing reforms,” Nwanguma said.

    He added that many Nigerians, particularly youths, women, and other vulnerable groups, often view the police as agents of fear rather than protection, underscoring the need for urgent reform and engagement.

    He noted that survivors of sexual and gender-based violence frequently face secondary victimisation at police stations through disbelief, stigma, extortion and ridicule, discouraging them from seeking justice.

    He described the Nigeria Police Act 2020 as a landmark reform meant to promote professionalism, accountability, human rights protection, community policing and gender-sensitive law enforcement.

    The RULAAC boss, however, lamented that implementation of the Act remains weak nearly six years after its enactment, citing persistent cases of monetised bail, illegal detention, torture, abuse of power and ineffective oversight.

    He said entrenched impunity, corruption and lack of political will have undermined the objectives of the law.

    On gender-responsive policing, Nwanguma said law enforcement must recognise that crime and policing affect men, women, boys and girls differently.

    He stressed the need for sensitive handling of sexual and gender-based violence cases and improved protection, training and career opportunities for female police officers.

    He said mutual suspicion continues to characterise police-media relations, with police accusing journalists of sensational reporting, while journalists complain of secrecy, harassment and arrests in the course of duty.

    Nwanguma warned that intimidation of journalists weakens press freedom and public confidence, while unverified reports can also damage institutional credibility.

    He called for regular dialogue platforms, joint training, improved information sharing and stronger police public relations systems to strengthen cooperation.

    Speaking in a related presentation on humanising the police, Nwanguma said poor welfare and working conditions have contributed significantly to corruption and misconduct within the force.

    He said many officers operate without adequate allowances, accommodation, logistics and equipment, creating conditions that encourage unethical conduct.

    He maintained that improving police welfare is a strategic measure to reduce corruption and enhance professionalism, not a reward for misconduct.

    While condemning corruption, he said some officers remain committed to ethical service but are often overshadowed by widespread misconduct.

    Nwanguma said the Police Act provides for recognition and commendation of officers who demonstrate professionalism and integrity, but noted that the provision is underutilised.

    He recalled that during the #EndSARS protests in 2020, some police officers maintained their posts and engaged peacefully with protesters because they had built community trust through professionalism.

    According to him, deliberate recognition and reward of ethical officers would help reinforce professional standards and gradually transform police culture.

    He stressed that sustainable police reform must combine improved welfare with strict accountability mechanisms.

    Nwanguma described the police and the media as partners in public safety, democracy and human rights, urging both sides to embrace transparency, professionalism and continuous engagement.

    He said stronger police-media cooperation would encourage crime reporting, improve policing effectiveness, enhance protection for vulnerable groups and strengthen democratic governance.

  • ‘2026 is for doers not talkers’, Iyabo Ojo speaks amid Nollywood drama

    ‘2026 is for doers not talkers’, Iyabo Ojo speaks amid Nollywood drama

    Actress and entrepreneur Iyabo Ojo has posted a cryptic message on her Instagram page amid ongoing controversies in the Nigerian film industry.

    The message, accompanied by an image of a billboard, reads, “Jealousy is the last class to attend before becoming a witch.”

    In the post, Ojo wrote, “Who made the rules? Nobody you gotta answer to. 2026 ain’t for talkers, it’s for doers. Do what works for you. Let others win their way. You win yours. Period.”

    Read Also: I’m the ‘president general of single mothers’ – Iyabo Ojo

    The post appeared to be a response to the ongoing drama within Nollywood, with Ojo emphasising her focus on personal goals and dismissing critics.

    The post came amid a wave of controversies in the film industry, with filmmaker Kunle Afolayan recently drawing criticism for his comments on filmmakers’ online presence.

    Actress Funke Akindele responded, urging creatives to prioritise innovation over criticism, while Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde emphasised the importance of authenticity in promotional activities.

  • 2Baba: I wish I could correct my past mistakes

    2Baba: I wish I could correct my past mistakes

    Afrobeats singer, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has admitted that he made some mistakes in his past, both in his career and personal life.

    In a recent interview on the Mic On podcast, the music legend expressed regret over certain decisions, stating, “There are so many things I wish I could rewind and do better. As a human being, there are times when you are overwhelmed.”

    Read Also: Wizkid, Fela comparison ‘ridiculous’ – 2Baba

    2Baba attributed some of his mistakes to being overwhelmed and making poor decisions, adding that his “thick-skin is weaker now.”

    He also addressed an alleged altercation with his wife, Natasha Osawaru, in London, taking responsibility for his actions. “I was angry that day. It was an unfortunate incident,” he said.

  • Obi Cubana urges youths to cash on Tinubu’s programmes for future power transfer

    Obi Cubana urges youths to cash on Tinubu’s programmes for future power transfer

    The South-East Coordinator of the City Boy Movement (CBM), Chief Obi Cubana, has urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s youth-focused programmes and policies as a pathway to future leadership and power transfer.

    He said the president has shown a strong commitment to youth development, expressing confidence that political leadership would, in time, pass to the younger generation after the current administration.

    Cubana spoke in Abuja shortly after he was formally decorated as South-East Coordinator of the City Boy Movement by the group’s Director-General, Mr Francis Oluwatosin Shoga.

    The entrepreneur and socialite called on young Nigerians to engage in issue-based politics that would prepare them for leadership responsibilities at the national level.

    “At some point, power will be handed over, and there is no other group to hand it over to than the youth,” Cubana said, urging young people to begin positioning themselves for higher responsibilities.

    Read Also: Elui praises Seyi Tinubu for appointing Obi Cubana to City Boy Movement role

    He added that under President Tinubu, a “wind of change” was sweeping through Nigeria’s political space, describing it as a positive development that should be embraced with focus and resilience by the youth.

    Cubana further urged young people and his supporters to remain steadfast, avoid distractions and commit themselves to constructive engagement, stressing that discipline and consistency were essential to long-term success.

    Earlier, while formally welcoming Cubana, the Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Mr Shoga, noted the large turnout of supporters at the event, describing it as evidence of the movement’s growing momentum.

    “We are proud to have you as a leader in the South-East, and we believe a lot of things are going to change,” Shoga said.

    He explained that the movement is focused on reshaping the political consciousness of young Nigerians, stressing that active participation is key to changing the national narrative.

    “If you are not involved, you can’t change the story,” he said.

    Shoga explained that the Movement is working towards grooming young business leaders and professionals for key political positions ahead of the 2027 general elections, including governorship, legislative, and ministerial roles.

    Handing over the South East leadership responsibilities of the group to Cubana, the DG said the new coordinator has a big task ahead of him, stressing that he could not afford to disappoint the Movement. 

    Shoga then called for unity and increased youth participation in politics, as other speakers at the event urged young Ni gerians to organise, engage constructively, and prepare to play decisive roles in shaping the country’s future.

  • Police in Enugu recover truck snatched from Delta

    Police in Enugu recover truck snatched from Delta

    The Police Command in Enugu State has recovered a truck reportedly snatched at gunpoint in Delta, while intensifying manhunt for fleeing suspects.

    This is contained in a statement by the Command’s Spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, on Friday in Enugu.

    Ndukwe said that operatives of the Command attached to Awgu Division, in the early hours of Jan. 31, recovered a Sinotruk truck along Ndeagbor Road, Awgu community, in Awgu Local Government Area.

    “The recovery followed the operatives’ swift response to an intelligence report that the truck had been snatched at gunpoint from its driver at Ugwuashi-Uku, Delta State, on Jan. 29.

    “On sighting the operatives, the criminal elements abandoned the truck and fled into a nearby forest.

    Read Also: Police arrest eight suspects in bush combing operation in Kogi

    “A manhunt for the suspects is ongoing, while the owner of the vehicle has been identified and investigations have commenced,” he said.

    Ndukwe said that the state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Mamman Giwa, had encouraged members of the public to promptly report incidents of crime to the police.

    The spokesman also reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to the continued protection of lives and property across the state.

    (NAN) 

  • INEC can’t choose leadership for PDP – Turaki

    INEC can’t choose leadership for PDP – Turaki

     The Taminu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said that Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cannot choose a leadership for the party.

    The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, stated this while reacting to the INEC quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, attended by the Abdulraman Mohammed-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC).

    “We are aware that the Independent National Electoral Commission invited the leaders of political parties to a meeting today (Thursday).

    “We are also aware that INEC extended the invitation to some former members of our party who are purporting to lead a so-called National Caretaker Committee, to represent our party, whereas there is no such provision in our constitution.

    “This action, though ordinarily vexatious and capable of causing widespread breach of peace, will be met with all possible legal response.

    Read Also: PDP State chairmen back Turaki-led faction

    “Though not unexpected of this current INEC leadership, but it is expected that an impartial umpire would have taken notice of the pendency of the matters in the Court of Appeal.

    “This include the judgment which they are relying upon, which, when decided, will effectively affect the subject under consideration; and exercised restraint, therefrom.

    “We can assure that INEC will not choose a leadership for our party,” Ememobong said.

    He urged all PDP members to remain calm and hopeful that soonest, the Court of Appeal would hear and determine all the cases concerning the leadership of the party.

    “We assure that the rebirth movement of our party, under the able leadership of Tanimu Turaki, SAN, is steady and secure.

    “It will ultimately surmount all these challenges, to present a stronger and more united party to Nigerians, as a credible alternative to the ruling party,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Sterling HoldCo sustains profit momentum, grows earnings 99% in 2025

    Sterling HoldCo sustains profit momentum, grows earnings 99% in 2025

    Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling HoldCo” or “the Group”) has announced its interim, unaudited financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025, headlined by a 99% year-over-year (YoY) increase in profit before tax (PBT). The margin highlights a period of sustained performance, building on the 102% growth achieved in 2024 and affirming the Group’s position as one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the region.

    The results also indicate an optimisation of the Group’s diversified portfolio, underlined by a 22% return on equity. Through a focus on operational efficiency and aggressive balance-sheet expansion across its banking and non-banking verticals, Sterling HoldCo has successfully translated favourable yields and increased transaction volumes into a strengthened capital position and superior value for its stakeholders.

    Gross earnings increased by 46% YoY to ₦476.5 billion, driven by growth across both interest and non-interest income streams, while PBT stood at ₦90.7 billion. Additionally, the Group demonstrated improved operational efficiency, with the cost-to-income ratio declining to 63%, compared with 72% in 2024, reflecting controlled operating expenses alongside revenue expansion.

    The consistency in Sterling HoldCo’s 2025 performance reflects that beyond the accelerated earnings growth in the year, the institution is now benefiting from more balanced growth, driven by strategic income lines, enhanced operational efficiency, and disciplined capital deployment across its various verticals. The margins also underscore the scalability of its platforms and the resilience of its business model in navigating a demanding operating environment.

    Interest income rose 43% to ₦369.6 billion, supported by growth in loans and advances to customers and improved yields on investment securities. Non-interest income increased by 57.3%, reflecting higher trading income, growth in fees and commissions, and contributions from other income sources, further strengthening its earnings mix.

    The Group also recorded steady balance-sheet growth in 2025. Total assets increased by 11% to ₦3.92 trillion, driven mainly by growth in customer lending and investment securities. Customer deposits grew by 18% to ₦2.98 trillion, supported by increased customer activity and product adoption across the Group’s platforms.

    A key driver of Sterling HoldCo’s improved performance has been its continued investment in digital and operational capabilities across its banking and non-banking businesses. These investments have enhanced service delivery, improved cost efficiency, and strengthened its capacity to support growing customer volumes while maintaining sound risk controls.

    Shareholders’ funds increased by 39% to ₦424.0 billion, supported by retained earnings and continuous profitability, further strengthening the Group’s capital position and capacity to support growth.

    Building on the appreciation of shareholders’ funds, Sterling HoldCo has fortified its capital structure by ensuring its subsidiaries met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new recapitalisation requirements well ahead of the March 2026 deadline. This achievement was driven by a series of disciplined capital-raising initiatives, including a public offer of over ₦88 billion to bolster Sterling Bank’s position, and a prior capital injection that secured The Alternative Bank’s status as a national non-interest bank.

    With a stronger capital position, increasing deposits, and a diversified earnings base, Sterling HoldCo is well-positioned to sustain growth across its subsidiaries, deploying capital responsibly, and supporting sustainable economic activity.

  • Wizkid, Fela comparison ‘ridiculous’ – 2Baba

    Wizkid, Fela comparison ‘ridiculous’ – 2Baba

    Music icon Innocent Idibia popularly known as 2Baba has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding the comparison between singer Wizkid and late Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, describing the discussion as “ridiculous”.

    In a snippet from an upcoming episode of the Mic On podcast, 2Baba expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating that comparing the two artists is not only disrespectful to Fela’s legacy but also unfair to Wizkid’s career.

    The debate gained momentum after Wizkid responded to criticisms from Seun Kuti, son of Fela Kuti, by claiming he is “bigger” than the Afrobeat pioneer.

    2Baba emphasised that Fela and Wizkid should be appreciated for their unique contributions to Nigerian music, highlighting the differences in their eras, styles, and impacts on the industry.

    Read Also: No ‘wack artist’ in music industry – 2baba

    According to 2Baba, placing Fela and Wizkid side by side ignores the distinct contexts and environments in which they created their music.

    He stressed that such comparisons are unproductive and fail to acknowledge the individual achievements of both artists.

    He urged fans and critics alike to recognise and celebrate the distinct legacies of Fela and Wizkid, allowing each artist to be judged on their own merit.

    “Comparing Fela with Wizkid is ridiculous. Apart from the fact that it is disrespectful to Fela, and at the same time, it is also unfair to Wizkid,” 2Baba expressed.