The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Adamawa progressive elders council endorses Tinubu for 2027 

    Adamawa progressive elders council endorses Tinubu for 2027 

    The Adamawa Progressive Elders Council (APEC) has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election come 2027.

    Reaffirming its loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its commitment to the unity and progress of the party in Adamawa State, the APC support group said Tinubu has done well enough to merit a second term.

    The resolution to support Tinubu’s re-election was reached at a well-attended meeting of the Council held in Yola, where it was reiterated that the Elders Council was constituted to, among other things, build a formidable APC structure capable of delivering President Bola Tinubu and all APC candidates in the 2027 electoral cycle.

    Read Also: Tinubu has ended Southeast’s roads nightmare, says Umahi

    The Yola meeting was attended by eminent party stakeholders, including a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, former governors, serving and former ministers, former members of the national and state houses of assembly, former state cabinet members, current federal appointees, and other high-profile APC leaders from across the state.

    In a communique signed by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Senator Abubakar Girei and the Secretary, Mrs Olvadi Madayi, the Council which comprises  prominent APC members drawn from all 21 local government areas of Adamawa State, commended President Tinubu for appointing the Leader of the Party, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to what it described as the most sensitive and strategic position in government. 

    It also expressed appreciation for the various federal appointments extended to Adamawa indigenes, and resolved to cascade its activities to local government and ward levels to strengthen grassroots engagement, facilitate early identification of disputes, and ensure prompt conflict resolution.

  • Why Okpebholo conducts unscheduled project inspections, by media aide

    Why Okpebholo conducts unscheduled project inspections, by media aide

    Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, Patrick Ebojele, has outlined the rationale behind the governor’s frequent unscheduled inspection visits to project sites across the state.

    According to Ebojele, the visits form part of a deliberate strategy to keep contractors accountable and ensure that projects are executed on schedule and in line with approved specifications.

    He made the clarification in a statement issued in Benin City following the governor’s tour of key projects in Esan West, Esan Central and Esan North East Local Government Areas.

    Projects inspected included the Ekpoma Modern Market, the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) Shopping Complex, the Ukhun–Eguare Road and the Irrua–Illeh–Ukhun Road.

    Ebojele said the jubilation, cheers and warm reception from residents during the visits reflected the public’s endorsement of the administration’s practical approach to governance. 

    He added that community leaders also commended the governor for extending tangible development to the grassroots.

    He said, “One of the major projects inspected was the Ekpoma Modern Market in Esan West, where construction has intensified, with contractors, workers and heavy equipment actively on site.

    “Governor Okpebholo also inspected the rebuilding of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) Shopping Complex in Ekpoma. The complex, which was destroyed by fire during a protest, is now under reconstruction, with contractors already working on over 20 burnt shops.

    In Esan Central, Governor Okpebholo and his entourage visited the Irrua–Illeh–Ukhun Road to assess the quality and specifications of work, which has reportedly reached an advanced stage.

    “The roads across the senatorial district are described as critical to economic development, as they will link several communities, ease transportation of farm produce and open up rural areas for trade, investment and growth.

    “The scale of ongoing construction reflects the Okpebholo administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, improved socio-economic activities and increased revenue generation for the state.”

  • JUST IN: Tragedy averted as tanker spills diesel in Lagos

    JUST IN: Tragedy averted as tanker spills diesel in Lagos

    A tragedy was averted early Monday after a diesel-laden tanker fell and spilled its content on the Liverpool Bridge inward Mile 2 area of Lagos State, thereby sparking panic amongst motorists and commuters.

    The incident was reported to have occurred around 8:30am when the truck lost control and fell, spilling its highly flammable content on the road.

    Viral videos of the incident obtained by The Nation showed some residents scooping the diesel that had spread along the road and under the bridge. 

    The Special Assistant on Media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Wale Ajetunmobi in an update on his X page formerly Twitter said: “Lagos State emergency management team led by @LagosRescue has already responded to the situation, dispatching personnel to the scene. 

    Read Also: Bauchi records 50 road deaths, 468 injuries in three months – FRSC

    “Also, security agencies have been directed to carefully disperse the crowds under the bridge. More updates will follow.”

    LASTMA on its “X” page formerly Twitter said: “There’s a fallen tanker loaded with diesel on top Liverpool bridge inward Mile2.

    “The diesel is spreading on the bridge as a result of the damaged tank. Men of Nigerian Police Force from Area B and other safety Agencies have been swiftly notified.

    “Traffic has been diverted to that other side of the bridge for safety measures.

    In another update, it said: “The road on Liverpool bridge inward Apapa that was cordoned off has been reopened after the contents have been neutralised by men of Lagos State Fire Service.

    “LASTMA officials are doing the needful and traffic is expected to move better, while we await the arrival of a tow truck.”

  • Tanker overturns on Tincan Liverpool Bridge, residents scoop spilled diesel

    Tanker overturns on Tincan Liverpool Bridge, residents scoop spilled diesel

    A diesel-laden tanker overturned on the Tincan Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, triggering a scramble by residents and passersby who scooped the leaked product beneath the bridge.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle toppled in the early hours during rush hour, before traffic management personnel arrived at the scene. 

    Videos circulating online showed individuals carrying jerrycans and assorted containers as they collected the diesel despite the clear danger.

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said the affected section of the bridge was cordoned off to enable emergency responders secure the area. 

    The agency later announced that the road had been reopened after the spilled content was neutralised.

    In a post on X, LASTMA said, “The road on Liverpool Bridge inward Apapa that was cordoned off has been reopened after the contents have been neutralised by men of the Lagos State Fire Service. LASTMA officials are doing the needful and traffic is expected to move better, while we await the arrival of a tow truck.”

    Earlier, the agency had warned motorists of heavy congestion, noting that officials of the Lagos State Fire Service and rescue team were on ground, while a counter-flow traffic control measure was temporarily adopted.

    The incident again highlights the recurring and dangerous practice of fuel scooping from fallen tankers across the country, often with tragic consequences.

  • Road maintenance and national security coordination initiative

    Road maintenance and national security coordination initiative

    • By Samuel Charles-Odiase

    An Open Letter to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Your Excellency,

    With deep respect and unwavering patriotism, I write to draw your attention to a matter of urgent national importance—the state of our road transport system and its direct impact on national security, economic growth, and public safety.

    Nigeria’s population continues to expand, and entrepreneurship is rising at an unprecedented pace. Every day, goods worth billions of naira are transported across states, and millions of citizens migrate from one location to another in pursuit of livelihood, education, and business opportunities. This growing movement places heavy pressure on our road networks and security architecture.

    Recently, I observed the importation of hundreds of heavy-duty trucks by a single business entity, in addition to the many others cleared from our seaports daily. This increasing number of heavy-duty vehicles, while economically beneficial, significantly contributes to road congestion, road damage, and increased security risks.

    Read Also: Tinubu has ended Southeast’s roads nightmare, says Umahi

    Your Excellency, I humbly propose the introduction of a regulated movement schedule for heavy-duty trucks, assigning a specific time window—from 4:00 p.m. daily—for their interstate movement. This measure, already practised in several developed nations, would produce multiple benefits:

    1. Reduced road congestion:

    Lighter traffic during the day will ease movement for small vehicles, commuters, and transport services.

    2. Enhanced security monitoring:

    Security personnel will be better positioned to focus on screening smaller vehicles and travellers during peak hours, ensuring safer highways.

    3. Improved inspection of heavy-duty trucks:

    With trucks moving within a regulated time frame, security agencies can conduct more coordinated and effective checks for: Unlawful goods, illegal migration, human trafficking, and contraband items

    4. Reduction in road accidents:

    Segregating heavy-duty trucks from daytime traffic will help minimize fatal accidents involving commercial buses and private commuters.

    5. Enhance joint force:

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), with the support of the Police, can conduct routine daytime and night-time checkpoints to ensure that all vehicles on our roads are roadworthy and that their drivers are properly licensed.

    6. Strengthened National Security:

    The regulated movement window will help security personnel effectively monitor the large number of people and goods transported across states, ensuring that non-citizens or individuals with harmful intent are not exploiting our transportation system.

    Your Excellency, this single policy, if implemented, holds the potential to save lives, protect our roads, enhance national security, and boost economic productivity. It is a proactive step that aligns with your administration’s commitment to safety, infrastructure development, and national stability.

    I trust in your wisdom, leadership, and dedication to a safer, more prosperous Nigeria. May this humble recommendation contribute meaningfully to your vision for a stronger nation.

    With highest regards,

    Samuel Ehizojie Charles-Odiase

    Samuel Ehizojie Charles-Odiase is a member of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria and the Chief Executive Officer of Easyrite International. He is committed to driving value, accountability, and excellence in every professional engagement.

  • Tinubu mourns Kano business leader Bature Abdulaziz

    Tinubu mourns Kano business leader Bature Abdulaziz

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned Kano-based businessman and leader of the trading community, Alhaji Bature Abdulaziz, describing the loss as one that resonates beyond Kano and across Nigeria’s commercial landscape.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, the President said Abdulaziz’s passing deprived the nation of a respected voice in commerce whose influence spanned several trade associations. 

    The late business leader, who died over the weekend in Kano, was the National President of the Harmonised Traders Association of Nigeria and played prominent roles in other commerce-related unions.

    Tinubu also acknowledged the support he received from the deceased during the 2023 election campaigns, noting Abdulaziz’s consistent advocacy for national unity and patriotism through the Patriotic Elders Network for Peace (PENP), which he founded.

    Read Also: Senator Araraume backs Tinubu for second term

    The President extended condolences to the Kano business community, the government and people of Kano State, and the family of the deceased, praying for comfort for all who mourn him.

    In a related development, President Tinubu strongly condemned the murder of a housewife, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children in the Chiranci community of Kano State, describing the act as barbaric and unacceptable.

    He commended the Nigeria Police for the swift arrest of the principal suspects and directed that investigations be concluded promptly, with diligent prosecution of those responsible.

    The President also condoled with the bereaved family, assuring them that justice would be pursued to its logical conclusion.

  • Police foil kidnap attempt, neutralise suspect in Enugu

    Police foil kidnap attempt, neutralise suspect in Enugu

    The Enugu Police Command has recorded major operational successes in crackdown on violent crimes and organised robbery across the State with the foiling of a kidnapping attempt in Adani, Uzo-Uwani LGA and the arrest and prosecution of four suspected “one-chance” robbers in Enugu metropolis.

    Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command, attached to the Adani Division and working jointly with members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group, foiled a kidnapping attempt in the early hours of Sunday, January 18, 2026, along the Ngene-Ukwu axis of the Adani–Nsukka Road.

    The incident occurred around 6:00 a.m. following an intense gun duel between the joint security team and armed kidnapping suspects.

    During the exchange, one of the suspects was neutralised, while an AK-47 rifle loaded with two rounds of live ammunition was recovered.

    Other members of the gang reportedly escaped into a nearby forest with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had emerged from a bush along the road with the intention of abducting occupants of a vehicle plying the route before they were intercepted by security operatives.

    Efforts have since been intensified to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle the entire criminal network.

    Residents of the area, particularly healthcare providers, have been urged to promptly report anyone presenting with gunshot wounds or suspicious injuries to the nearest police station or security formation.

    In a related development, operatives of the Command’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Squad arrested four suspected members of a notorious “one-chance” robbery syndicate operating within Abakpa-Nike and other parts of Enugu metropolis.

    Read Also: Police nab 25-year-old for running illegal clinic

    The suspects, identified as Ndubuisi Achioko (62), Nnaji Okeh (55), Nwobodo Dennis (57), and Chinedu Idam (36), were apprehended on January 10, 2026, at about 9:00 a.m. while allegedly prowling for unsuspecting victims with a tricycle, which was recovered during the operation. All suspects are residents of Abakpa-Nike.

    Police said the suspects confessed during interrogation to being part of a larger robbery syndicate operating from the Abakpa-Nike axis.

    They have since been arraigned before a competent court and remanded in correctional custody, while a manhunt has been launched for other fleeing members of the gang.

    Commending the gallantry and professionalism of the operatives involved in both operations, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to ridding Enugu State of kidnapping, “one-chance” robbery, and other violent crimes.

    He urged members of the public to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and to promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established police emergency channels.

  • I struggled to bond with my son after birth – Tiwa Savage

    I struggled to bond with my son after birth – Tiwa Savage

    Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage has revealed how she struggled to bond with her son, Jamil, after his birth in 2015, admitting she wasn’t excited when she found out he was a boy.

    Speaking in a recent interview with Korty EO, Savage shared that her desire for a girl and the challenges of postpartum life, including losing a major campaign deal due to her changed appearance, initially made her feel like her son had “destroyed” her career.

    “Honestly, I didn’t bond with my son for the first year or two. I always wanted a girl. They told me it was a boy, and I started crying.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Wizkid, others nominated for 2026 MOBO awards

    “So, when he came he was always crying and my body didn’t snap back. I looked horrible. I was supposed to do a campaign with Pepsi at the time and they turned me away. And I just thought this boy has destroyed me. But now, he is my best friend,” Savage said.

    According to her, she is also focused on raising Jamil to be a kind and respectful man, advising him to treat women with care and respect, citing her own experiences in past relationships.

    “I always tell him, your mum suffered oo, make sure you treat any girl like a queen. It is very important for me to raise him as a good man. He is going to make mistakes, he is not perfect. But at the core of him, I want him to be kind,” she added.

    Jamil, who turned 10 in July 2025, has become a source of joy for the singer, who is determined to shape him into a good man despite his inevitable mistakes.

  • Why I’m still relevant years after BBNaija win – Mercy Eke

    Why I’m still relevant years after BBNaija win – Mercy Eke

    Winner of Big Brother Naija Season 4, Mercy Eke has attributed her continued relevance in the entertainment industry to her strong work ethic and clear goals.

    Eke, in an interview with Odira Ndubuaku, emphasised that she has consistently put in the effort, never turning down opportunities and prioritising her business.

    She stated that her ability to stay focused and driven has been key to her success, waking up with purpose and having a clear picture of what to do every day.

    Read Also: Mercy Eke celebrates Tacha’s Guinness World Record attempt

    “I am still relevant because I put in the work, I have never turned down any money.

    “Also, I mind my business a lot. I work hard. I wake up with purpose. Some people wake up, they don’t have things to do. But I always have a clear picture of what to do every day”, she said.

    Mercy Eke won Big Brother Naija in 2019, specifically the Season 4 edition, tagged “Pepper Dem,” making her the first female winner in the show’s history.

    She emerged victorious on October 6, 2019, after 99 days in the house, beating out Mike Edwards for the grand prize.

  • Coach Lara Yeku honoured at Setting The Pace Lagos conference

    Coach Lara Yeku honoured at Setting The Pace Lagos conference

    Renowned career coach and leadership development expert, Lara Yeku, was honoured with the Honorary Mentor Award at the Setting The Pace 4.0 Professional Conference held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the LCCI Conference and Exhibition Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.

    Yeku received the recognition for her contributions to mentorship, leadership development and capacity building, as professionals from various sectors gathered for the annual conference organised by Qodar Safety Consults.

    Speaking after receiving the award, Yeku described the honour as humbling, praising the organisers and participants for redefining professional excellence through people-centred leadership, discipline and purposeful action.

    She commended their commitment to health, safety and environmental leadership, noting that such values are critical to sustainable organisational growth.

    The Setting The Pace Professional Conference is an annual, purpose-driven platform designed to reset mindsets, sharpen leadership capacity and reposition professionals for excellence at the start of each year.

    Though originally rooted in safety, risk and HSE leadership, the conference has evolved into a broader thought-leadership initiative addressing professionalism, ethical leadership, future-of-work readiness, performance excellence and strategic influence.

    The 2026 edition, tagged Setting The Pace 4.0, builds on the success of previous editions and places strong emphasis on leadership, professional excellence, capacity building and future readiness.

    It attracted executives, business leaders, engineers, consultants, managers, supervisors, young professionals and emerging leaders seeking to strengthen their leadership impact and remain relevant in a changing work environment.

    Organisers noted that the conference is intentionally structured to go beyond motivation, offering practical, insight-driven sessions aimed at influencing thinking and behaviour.

    Read Also: Firm wins Dangote Cement’s largest distributor award

    Participants left with clearer leadership perspectives, renewed professional confidence and tools applicable to their workplaces.

    Qodar Safety Consults, the organisers of the conference, is a professional QHSE, ESG and management systems consulting firm that provides end-to-end solutions including consulting, training, auditing and project safety support.

    The firm supports organisations across multiple industries, positioning safety, quality and sustainability as drivers of performance and business excellence.