The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • JAMB directs UNN, others to reverse irregular admissions

    JAMB directs UNN, others to reverse irregular admissions

    • …warns institutions against skipping highly ranked candidates for lower ones

    Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has directed the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and others who were involved in irregular admissions to reverse it immediately.

    The Board said its attention was drawn to a practice by some tertiary institutions where higher-ranked candidates are reportedly being bypassed in favour of lower-ranked candidates.

    It said this in its weekly bulletin released by its Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, on Monday in Abuja.

    While calling for a reversal of the irregular admissions, the Board urged tertiary institutions to strictly adhere to the established guidelines governing the selection and admission of candidates.

    The statement said, “The attention of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has been drawn to the conduct of admissions by some tertiary institutions where higher-ranked candidates are reportedly being bypassed in favour of lower-ranked candidates.

    “The Board has cautioned the affected institutions and directed the immediate reversal of such irregular admissions. Notwithstanding these reversals, JAMB reiterates its call on all institutions to strictly adhere to the established guidelines governing the selection and admission of candidates.

    Read Also: ‘Ibadan PDP convention mere jamboree’

    “The admission process operates on a three-tier policy of Merit, Catchment Area, and Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS). Each tier is guided strictly by ranking (Merit), such that candidates with higher rankings must be selected first, followed by others in descending order. Any situation in which a better-ranked candidate is skipped for a lower-ranked candidate under any of these categories will not be tolerated by the Board.”

    JAMB, however, dismissed a recent allegation by a candidate who alleged that she was bypassed by UNN for admission despite having a high score.

    The Board said the candidate cited in the allegation was found not to have been disadvantaged, as several higher-ranked candidates were ahead of her on the admission list.

    The statement added, “Consequently, her non-admission was in line with due process of her not ranking high enough to be on the selected limit.

    “While the Board observed instances where some better-ranked candidates were indeed skipped and had ordered the reversal of those admissions, the said candidate was not affected by such irregularities.

    “JAMB remains resolute in ensuring that no candidate with a higher ranking is displaced by a lower-ranked candidate in the admission process.

    “The Board therefore advises candidates to refrain from allowing themselves to be used by individuals seeking attention or followership on social media through baseless allegations. Candidates are urged to verify claims of admission irregularities through appropriate and official channels before lending credence to or promoting such allegations.”

  • Funke Akindele makes history as ‘Behind The Scenes’ grosses N2bn

    Funke Akindele makes history as ‘Behind The Scenes’ grosses N2bn

    Multi-award-winning actress and producer Funke Akindele has made history with her latest film, ‘Behind The Scenes,’ which has become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of 2025, earning N2.103 billion in just a month.

    The film, distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, broke five opening-weekend records, including the highest single-day gross on Boxing Day with N129.5 million.

    Now reacting to the latest achievement, the distributor wrote: “Behind the Scenes has officially broken and shattered records, hitting over 2 billion at the box office and becoming the first Nollywood film in Africa to cross the ₦2 billion mark.

    “This is also the highest-grossing Nollywood film of all time in Africa, the UK, and Ireland, and makes @funkejenifaakindele the first filmmaker to rank #1 at the box office in Africa for three consecutive years. West Africa’s highest-grossing filmmaker, writer, director, and producer of all time.”

    This feat solidifies Akindele’s position as a powerhouse in the industry, with her third film to gross over N1 billion.

    Read Also: How Funke Akindele made over N6bn at Nigerian box office in five years

    Akindele’s impressive track record has earned her the title of West Africa’s highest-grossing filmmaker, writer, director, and producer of all time.

    The film’s success can be attributed to its advanced screening, all-star cast, and relatable storyline, which explores themes of family, loyalty, and social pressures.

    The cast, including Scarlet Gomez, Iyabo Ojo, Destiny Etiko, Tobi Bakre, and Uche Montana, delivered standout performances that resonated with audiences.

    Akindele expressed her gratitude to fans, saying, “Joy overflows! Our heart is full of gratitude to God and to you, my amazing fans who have truly become family. Thank you for showing up, supporting, and believing in this journey. Reaching this incredible milestone and still counting would not have been possible without you. I am deeply grateful. Let’s keep pushing, growing, and supporting the Funke Akindele Network brand together.”

  • Ibadan traditional stakeholders warn Alaafin of Oyo over disrespect to Olubadan

    Ibadan traditional stakeholders warn Alaafin of Oyo over disrespect to Olubadan

    • …say Alaafin’s stretching of hand to greet Ladoja insulting

    Ibadan traditional leaders, including monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent indigenes, have cautioned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against disrespecting the Olubadan stool and the Ibadan traditional institution.

    The warning followed an incident at Agodi Government House, Ibadan, where Oba Owoade reportedly extended his hand to greet Oba Adewolu Ladoja while the Olubadan was seated—a gesture the stakeholders described as a serious insult to both Oba Ladoja and the Ibadan traditional establishment.

    In a statement, President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, condemned the act as “an embarrassment of the highest order.”

    They noted that the Olubadan’s response was appropriate and served as a warning, stressing that any further affronts from Oba Owoade would be met with stronger reactions from Ibadan’s traditional authorities, including Kabiyesis, Chiefs, Mogajis, and Baales.

    The stakeholders highlighted Oba Ladoja’s seniority, achievements, leadership record, and contributions to Ibadan’s socio-political and business landscape, emphasising that his stature surpasses that of Oba Owoade.

    They reaffirmed their readiness to act decisively against any actions that could undermine the dignity of the Ibadan traditional institution.

    According to the statement, “Alaafin’s disrespect to the Olubadan stool and traditional institution is getting out of hand. If Governor Seyi Makinde doesn’t caution him, and Ibadan people (Including Mogajis, Baales, Chiefs, etc.) were pushed to revolt against his insulting action against Olubadan, the Oyo monarch will hate himself.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Makinde, Olubadan to attend 60th remembrance of S.L. Akintola

    “We have on record a series of his uncultured attitude towards Ibadan traditional stools, this has to stop as Ibadanland will not tolerate his further aggrandizement.

    “Ibadan people are not cowards or lazy; we are fearless, we are just suppressing and calming the nerves of our people.

    “Ibadan people cherish their culture and traditions and hold them in high esteem; anything that is capable of ridiculing the culture and traditions of Ibadan will be rejected by the people of Ibadan land.

    “Alaafin cannot come to our territory, while sitting down and stretching his hand to shake our highly revered 82-year old Olubadan.

    “Oba Ladoja was a former Senator, a former Governor, an international figure, and a successful businessman.

    “Alaafin may choose not to greet Oba Ladoja, but stretching hands while on the seat to greet Olubadan is an insult to the entire Ibadan traditional institution.”

    “Ibadanland has never once been a subordinate to Alaafin, Ibadan mesi o go.”

  • Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ hits N863 million, becomes her highest-grossing film

    Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ hits N863 million, becomes her highest-grossing film

    Toyin Abraham’s directorial debut, ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ has set a new record for Toyin Abraham Productions, grossing over ₦850 million and counting.

    Film distributor FilmOne celebrated the achievement on Instagram, writing, “World’s Best steady delivering back-to-back Oversabi Box office numbers! Oversabi Aunty is now the Highest Grossing Film in the Toyin Abraham Production, grossing ₦850M and counting. It’s also one of the top two highest-grossing titles of 2025! Thank you to everyone who made this possible. This win is yours as well. Thank you for showing up and spreading the word.”

    Released on December 19, ‘Oversabi Aunty’ followed the story of a well-meaning but overly involved aunty whose attempts to solve everyone’s problems lead to hilarious misunderstandings and heartwarming revelations. An advanced screening on December 18 generated widespread buzz, setting the stage for its nationwide success.

    The film features an all-star cast, including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, and Enioluwa Adeoluwa, among others, and has quickly become one of the top two highest-grossing films of 2025.

    Abraham expressed her gratitude to fans, thanking them for their love and support, saying, “Firstly, Thank You, Lord. Thank you, Toyintitans (love u all with everything), and to everyone supporting me, THANK YOU from the deepest part of my heart! Honestly, I still don’t know if I’m dreaming or awake… is this real?? Dreams truly do come true. This journey has been emotional, overwhelming, and beautiful. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

  • Ekiti 2026: Ex-governor Segun Oni rejoins APC

    Ekiti 2026: Ex-governor Segun Oni rejoins APC

    Barely five years after he left the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and later Social Democratic Congress (SDP), former Ekiti State Governor, Segun Oni, has formally rejoined the party.

    Oni, who governed Ekiti State between 2007 and 2010 on the platform of PDP, was the governorship candidate of the SDP in the 2022 election, where he came second behind Oyebanji.

    The former governor registered with the APC at his country home in Ifaki-Ekiti, Ido /Osi local government Area of the state on Monday amid jubilation by supporters and loyalists.

    Speaking after his registration, Oni said that his return to the ruling APC was a homecoming and a carefully considered decision taken in the overall interest of Ekiti people.

    “I have returned to the APC to join hands with Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other stakeholders to further strengthen peace, unity, and development in Ekiti State,” Oni said.

    The ex-governor explained that Ekiti’s political stability must be sustained beyond partisan differences, adding that he was impressed by the current administration’s inclusive governance style and commitment to grassroots development.

    Reacting to Oni’s return, the Coordinator of the APC e-registration exercise in Ekiti State, Gold Adesola Adedayo, described the development as a major boost to the party’s e- registration drive and a significant political gain.

    Read Also: Bravo and happy birthday Governor Segun Oni

    He said Oni’s return would strengthen the APC ahead of the June 20, 2026, governorship election, noting that the former governor remained a respected figure with strong grassroots appeal across the state.

    The serving Commissioner for Youth Development said, “Today, we registered former governor Segun Oni as a member of our great party. This significant political move will help the ongoing online registration of our members in Ekiti.

    “When it comes to grassroots politics, former governor Oni is a respected individual in this aspect. He is well-loved at the grassroots, and the intention of our registration is to attract more people into the APC. Having an individual like a former governor with us at this crucial time is a big plus.

    “We are happy with the pace at which we are going in the online registration exercise, and we know that the APC is poised for greatness and victory as we look up to the future elections.”

    The commissioner urged the party leaders not to rest and be complacent in their mobilisation efforts, saying more concerted actions are required to strengthen the party’s numerical strength at the grassroots. 

  • Oborevwori flags off ₦39.3bn Otovwodo flyover, vows to end Ughelli gridlock

    Oborevwori flags off ₦39.3bn Otovwodo flyover, vows to end Ughelli gridlock

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday flagged off the construction of the ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo (Ughelli) Flyover, describing it as a permanent solution to the chronic traffic congestion at one of the state’s busiest junctions.

    Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Ughelli, the governor said the project aligned with his administration’s infrastructure renewal agenda, focusing on durable road construction, prudent resource use, and improved connectivity across urban and rural areas.

    He said rapid population growth had overstretched Ughelli’s road network, particularly at the Otovwodo Junction along the East–West Road, turning it into a notorious traffic bottleneck that costs commuters several productive hours daily.

    Oborevwori added that he had personally experienced the gridlock at the junction.

    As an interim measure, the governor disclosed that his administration constructed alternative routes—including Uduere, Okogbe, Oru, and Edo streets, as well as Royal Avenue linking Agbarha-Otor Road—at a cost of nearly ₦6 billion to ease traffic ahead of the flyover.

    He expressed confidence that the project would permanently eliminate congestion in Ughelli and boost economic activities in the area.

    The governor said the project, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, is expected to be completed within 12 months, stressing that the timeline is non-negotiable due to the strategic importance of the junction.

    He explained that the project includes a multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageway, roundabouts and associated roadworks linking the East–West Road with other arterial routes, noting that it would ease congestion, reduce travel time, improve safety and boost economic activities.

    Oborevwori also highlighted the job creation potential of the project, saying it would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the construction value chain.

    He urged residents to be patient and comply with traffic directives during the construction.

    Reaffirming his commitment to transparency and accountability, the governor assured the residents that the state would continue executing major projects without borrowing, adding that several completed projects across the state were awaiting inauguration, with more to be flagged off in 2026 under the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.

    Read Also: DESOPADEC: Ndokwa group lauds Oborevwori for reinstating representative

    Earlier, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Peer Lubasch thanked the state government for the confidence reposed in the company, describing the contract as a validation of its technical expertise and partnership with Delta State.

    He said the 15-span flyover would feature a dual carriageway, connecting roads, specialised drainage systems, and solar street lighting, and assured timely delivery to global standards.

    Meanwhile, Oborevwori after the groundbreaking ceremony, visited the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and Chief Morrison Olori, founder and Chairman of Ukodo Nation, where he reiterated that he is Governor for all Deltans.

    In their remarks, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Hon Jaro Egbo, and the ‘Otota’ (spokesman) of Ughelli Kingdom, Chief Peter Akpofure, commended Governor Oborevwori for the project, describing it as transformative and long overdue, while appealing for additional internal roads and complementary infrastructure.

    The ceremony was attended by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, State Chairman, All Progressives Congress APC, Elder Omeni Sobotie, Members of the National Assembly, Hon. Francis Waive, and Hon. Ngozi Okolie, top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, who hailed the project as a decisive step towards ending Ughelli’s traffic challenges.

  • Taaooma raises alarm over illegal waste dumping on Lagos roads

    Taaooma raises alarm over illegal waste dumping on Lagos roads

    Comedienne Taaooma has raised concerns over the rampant issue of illegal waste disposal in Lagos State.

    A video shared by the skitmaker showed a large amount of refuse dumped on the road median in the Ikotun, Ejigbo, Egbeda area, with residents going about their daily activities.

    Taaooma tagged relevant authorities, including the Lagos Waste Management Authority and Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, and the state commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, calling for urgent attention to the issue.

    She wrote, “What’s happening in the ikotun/ejigbo/egbeda axis like this? @Lawma_gov @LasepaOfficial. Kindly help look into this @tokunbo_wahab”.

    The post has sparked reactions from social media users, with many claiming it’s a widespread problem across Lagos, citing areas like Shomolu, Mushin, and Surulere as examples.

    A user #AWholeSalmanPR replied saying it is everywhere in Lagos. He wrote, “It’s everywhere in Lagos Mainland that’s experiencing this. Shomolu, Mushin, Ketu, Ikotun, Oshodi, Surulere, Yaba. Everywhere is full of dirty.

    Another user, #ayurexars added his piece, saying: “Almost everywhere in Lagos, people dump refuse on road medians, and as I always say, the Lagos State Government enables this behavior. Instead of sanctioning offenders, trucks are sent to pick up the refuse.

    “By doing this, the government has unintentionally created a system people now see as normal. This practice will continue until something changes.

    #NejeebBello wrote, “Coming from Detty December to Dirty January, 2025 is the nastiest I’ve seen Lagos since the early 2000s, when Bola Tinubu was Governor.”

    “One of my neighbours moved out of the estate until further notice due to mountains of garbage, horrid smell, and the possibility of an epidemic.”

  • ABSU alumni celebrate reunion day, pledge support for university’s growth in 2026

    ABSU alumni celebrate reunion day, pledge support for university’s growth in 2026

    Former students of Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, gathered to reconnect, celebrate, and plan initiatives for their alma mater during the 2025 Alumni Day reunion held at Hotel Royal Dangret, Umuahia, the state capital.

     Alumni from across the country, including branches in Akwa Ibom State, attended the event.

    In his welcome address, acting national president of the ABSU Alumni, Chief Onwukwe O. Onwukwe, emphasised that the annual gathering serves both as a celebration and an avenue to give back to the University.

    He urged alumni to contribute towards elevating ABSU to greater heights, leveraging the benefits they have received from the institution to support its development.

    The Vice Chancellor of ABSU, Prof. Ndukwe Okeudo, also an alumnus, highlighted the University’s track record in producing influential personalities whose collaborations have enhanced ABSU’s national and international reputation.

    Prof. Okeudo encouraged the Alumni Association to explore additional initiatives to raise the University’s ranking among Nigerian universities, noting the institution’s strong academic performance and quality of teaching.

    Chairing the event, Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA) PLC, Dr. Oliver Alawuba, underscored the role of education in nation-building and commended the Alumni for their contributions to ABSU’s development.

    Alawuba recalled the association’s long-standing commitment to improving educational infrastructure and its wider impact on national development. He also praised past executives for their visionary leadership and lauded Governor Alex Oti for his consistent support of Abia State’s education sector.

    Delivering the keynote address on “The Role of Alumni Association in the Development of the University,” Prof. Chidi Nwosu, Librarian at the Agriculture and Environmental Science faculty and an alumnus, highlighted ways alumni engagement can strengthen the University.

    The reunion also welcomed members of the ABSU Akwa Ibom State branch, led by Chairman Elder Effiong Etukudoh, along with Vice Chairman Akparawa Charles Udoebuk, Secretary Christopher Umosen, and Eket local government area chapter Secretary Mrs. Grace Ebong.

    The event concluded with calls for continued alumni support and collaboration to ensure ABSU achieves higher recognition in Nigeria’s education system in 2026.

  • Diaspora professionals condemn Rivers Assembly’s impeachment moves against Fubara, Odu

    Diaspora professionals condemn Rivers Assembly’s impeachment moves against Fubara, Odu

    Nigerian professionals in the diaspora have expressed strong support for Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, warning that renewed impeachment proceedings against the duo constitute a destabilising political agenda that undermines democratic governance in the oil-rich state.

    In a statement released on Monday, the Nigerian Diaspora Professionals for Democratic Stability (NDPDS) described the impeachment efforts by the Rivers State House of Assembly as an abuse of legislative power stemming from the protracted political rivalry between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

    The statement was signed by Dr. Chukwudi Nnamani, president of the group, and Mr. Adewale Ogunsiwaju, its secretary.

    “The impeachment threats against Governor Fubara have become cyclical, predictable, and politically motivated. This is no longer about oversight or constitutional accountability; it is about who controls Rivers State’s political structure and resources. A democracy cannot function when impeachment is weaponised as a tool of supremacy rather than a last-resort constitutional remedy,” the group said.

    NDPDS added that the crisis in Rivers State traces back to the breakdown in the political relationship between Fubara and Wike shortly after the governor assumed office, noting that legislative actions since then have largely reflected factional interests rather than public welfare.

    “It is impossible to ignore the context. The House of Assembly has been deeply polarised, with legislative actions reflecting allegiance to external political authority rather than the electorate. No democracy should tolerate a situation where a sitting governor is subjected to perpetual threats of removal for refusing to submit to political godfathers,” the group said.

    The diaspora professionals warned that continued impeachment attempts could undermine governance, scare investors and deepen institutional instability in a state critical to Nigeria’s economic survival.

    “Rivers State is not a playground for political brinkmanship. It is a strategic economic nerve centre, and governance cannot be held hostage to unresolved elite power struggles. Every impeachment threat sends a negative signal to investors, development partners and citizens who expect stability, not chaos,” the statement added.

    The group also defended Fubara’s conduct in office, arguing that policy disagreements or political realignments do not meet the constitutional threshold of gross misconduct.

    “Disagreement is not a crime. Independence is not misconduct. A governor asserting constitutional authority should not be treated as a rebel. The threshold for impeachment is deliberately high because the framers of the constitution understood the danger of legislative overreach,” the group noted.

    The statement added that the diaspora community is watching the developments with concern, warning that repeated impeachment plots erode confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

    “When impeachment becomes routine rather than exceptional, democracy is weakened. What is happening in Rivers should worry every Nigerian, because it sets a precedent where electoral mandates can be endlessly undermined through legislative pressure,” the statement said.

    The group called on political leaders, the judiciary, and stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and constitutional restraint, urging the Rivers assembly to step back from actions that could plunge the state into a deeper crisis.

    “The mandate of the people must be respected. Rivers State deserves governance, not perpetual political warfare,” the statement added.

  • 2026: NANS Southwest endorses APC’s Oyebamiji for Osun governorship

    2026: NANS Southwest endorses APC’s Oyebamiji for Osun governorship

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone, on Monday endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), for the Osun State governorship race.

    Announcing the endorsement, the NANS Southwest coordinator, Comrade Taiwo Owolewa, said the decision was based on Oyebamiji’s consistent support for youth development, education, and student engagement. He described the APC candidate as a leader with proven capacity, accessibility, and a firm commitment to inclusive governance.

    “AMBO has demonstrated capacity, accessibility, and commitment to inclusive leadership. His impeccable antecedents and outstanding records in public service, along with his sustained relationship with students and young people across Osun State and the Southwest, clearly reflect a leader who understands governance from the people’s perspective,” Owolewa said.

    He added that the association has passed a vote of confidence in Oyebamiji, expressing belief that his administration would strengthen youth participation, advance education, and drive people-focused development.

    Owolewa urged the electorate to support and actively participate in the democratic process, stating that NANS had mobilised about 20 million students for voter registration in Osun State and that those registered would back the APC candidate.

    He also commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu for initiatives targeting student welfare, noting that programmes such as NELFUND, PiCNG, and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) scheme have expanded opportunities in technical, vocational, digital, and entrepreneurial development.