The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • UK Oyo APC caucus backs Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid

    UK Oyo APC caucus backs Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid

    The chairman of the Oyo State caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the United Kingdom, Hon. Adebayo Amusat-Gbenla, has outlined the group’s reasons for mobilising support and resources for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

    Speaking with journalists on Wednesday at a rally organised by party leaders in the Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency, Amusat-Gbenla said the caucus remains convinced of President Tinubu’s capacity to steer Nigeria toward meaningful national progress. 

    He stated that this confidence informed their decision to galvanise members and deploy resources in support of his second-term bid.

    The rally drew prominent party figures, including Senators Teslim Folarin, Sharafadeen Alli, Abdulfatai Buhari and Yunus Akintunde; the Oyo State APC Chairman, Alhaji Olaide Abas; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; and Hon. Aderemi Oseni.

    Amusat-Gbenla reiterated the caucus’ commitment to aligning with the administration’s programmes and policies, noting that their involvement is driven by a desire to contribute to building a country Nigerians can be proud of.

    Amusat-Gbenla said, “We are here to launch the Akinyele/ Lagelu federal constituency APC rally. You will recall that Senator Teslim Folarin was appointed as the leader of  Renew Hope Agenda for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Oyo State. We are going round to launch the rally in all the 33 local government areas in Oyo State. So, today is for Akinyele and Lagelu local government areas. That is why we are here. 

    “This is our home and we believe in the ability of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver. No matter how we stay over there, we will want to come back home. 

    “So, we want to be part of the progress being made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, hence we are pulling all the resources together to be part of the programme so that we can have a Nigeria we will all be proud of”. 

  • The View from Here 

    The View from Here 

    • By Olanrewaju Olajumoke Akinla 

    Staring out my window into the long 

    night, sniffing the smell of rain. 

    Watching the wind increase its pace, 

    lavishing its might on the leaves. 

    Yet— unwavering—the tree stands still, even as the wind presses its strength against her leaves. 

    Someday, the distressed leaves 

    hum aloud: 

    Someday, you wind, will exhaust your strength, and the night will walk away. 

    The poem was written by Olanrewaju Olajumoke Akinla, during a period of global political and social instability, this poem reflects on endurance, stillness, and hope amid uncertainty.

  • Russia deploys nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile in attack on Ukraine

    Russia deploys nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile in attack on Ukraine

    At least four people were killed and 19 others injured in Kiev after Russia pummelled Ukraine with missiles and drones overnight, using its nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile to target western Ukraine.

    Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Friday that a doctor was among the dead, while four medical workers were injured. Critical infrastructure had been hit in the attack, and some parts of the city were without power or water, he wrote on Telegram.

    The Russian Defence Ministry said on Telegram that the strikes were carried out in response to an alleged “terrorist attack” by Kiev on a residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 29, 2025.

    Facilities producing unmanned aerial vehicles used in the alleged attack, as well as energy infrastructure, were hit, according to the ministry.

    Moscow has claimed Ukraine attempted to attack Putin’s Valdai residence in western Russia with 91 drones, all of which it said were shot down. Experts have questioned the account presented by Russia.

    Ukraine has rejected the accusations and accuses Moscow of using the false claim to justify strikes on government buildings.

    In the west of Ukraine, the Western Command of Ukraine’s Air Force earlier said a Russian strike on Lviv was conducted using an unidentified ballistic missile.

    The Ukrainian military reported that the missile was launched from the Kapustin Yar test area in Russia’s Astrakhan, a known launch site for the Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile.

    Read Also: Trump’s oil push widens with seizure of Russian-flagged tanker linked to Venezuela

    Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi said explosions had been recorded in Lviv, but there was currently no information about casualties. Civilian facilities and residential buildings in the city were not damaged, he added.

    The Russian Defence Ministry said the Oreshnik missile was used as part of the attacks on western Ukraine, marking the second strike on Ukraine involving the weapon.

    “The Russian armed forces have launched a massive strike with ground- and sea-based high-precision long-range weapons against critical targets in Ukraine, including the Oreshnik medium-range complex and drones,” the ministry said in a statement quoted by state news agency TASS.

    Russia first fired an Oreshnik missile at Ukraine’s industrial city of Dnipro in November 2024.

    At the time, Putin justified the strike as retaliation for Kiev’s use of long-range Western weapons against military targets in the Russian hinterland.

    Putin has claimed that Western air defence systems are incapable of intercepting the Oreshnik, which means hazel shrub in Russian. He has also said it could hit targets as far away as Western Europe.

    The first Oreshnik missile deployed against Ukraine did not carry warheads, with damage caused solely by its high speed.

    Still in testing at the time, the weapon can carry conventional and nuclear warheads and, with speeds up to 12,000 kilometres per hour and a range of 5,000 kilometres, poses a potential threat to Europe.

    The second Oreshnik targeting Ukraine was carrying conventional warheads, according to the Russian military.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • Tragedy: 2-year-old boy drowns in well in Kano

    Tragedy: 2-year-old boy drowns in well in Kano

    Tragedy has struck in Kano State as a two-year-old boy, Sa’idu Ahmad, drowned in a well in Kwankwaso town, Madobi Local Government Area.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Alhaji Saminu Abdullahi, on Thursday in Kano.

    Abdullahi said the incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon.

    He said, ” We received an emergency call from the Deputy Director, Fire Service, Rabiu Garba, at about 12:15p.m that a boy has drowned in a well and we immediately sent our rescue team to the scene.”

    Abdullahi said the victim was rescued unconscious and was later handed over to Umar Shehu of  Madobi Police Division, explaining that the cause of  incident was under investigation.

    In another development, a 28-year-old man, Suleiman Sani, has also fallen into a well in Karofawa Yan Kifi Village, Ghari Local Government Area.

    Abdullahi said the incident also occurred on Wednesday evening.

    He said, “We received a call distress at Ghari fire station that a man has drowned in a well.

    “Our rescue team quickly mobilised themselves to the scene.

    “The victim was rescued unconscious and was later confirmed dead by his parents.

    “He was handed over to the Village Head of Karofawa, Alhaji Musa Aliyu and the cause of the incident is also under investigation.

    “The Kano State Fire Service extends its condolences to the families of the deceased and urge the public to ensure that wells are properly covered to prevent such tragic occurrences.”

    (NAN)

  • Obi commiserates with Chimamanda Adichie over son’s demise 

    Obi commiserates with Chimamanda Adichie over son’s demise 

    The  2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party,  Mr Peter Obi, has commiserated with a celebrated Nigerian author, Chimamanda Adichie, following the death of her son.

    Obi, a former governor of Anambra in his condolence message posted on his X handle on Friday,  explained that he had been following  the illness  of Adichie’s son, Nkanu, since he was informed of the illness  on Jan. 2.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Chimamanda Adichie’s toddler twin,  died at 21-month-old on Wednesday.

    Read Also: Tinubu condoles Chimamanda Adichie on death of son

    According to Obi, during this difficult time, I felt a deep sense of empathy for her and her family. I shared in their anxiety, prayed earnestly, and hoped for his recovery.

    “Therefore, the news I received yesterday morning was profoundly heartbreaking.

    “I am personally devastated, thinking of the immense pain my dear sister must be experiencing as a mother, along with her husband, Dr Ivara.

    “My heartfelt condolences go to them and the entire family during this moment of indescribable loss.

    “May God grant them the strength, comfort, and grace to bear this sorrow, and may Nkanu’s saintly soul rest in perfect peace.” he said.

    (NAN) 

  • Wizkid, Otedola, Selman make Kehinde Ajose’s inaugural ‘Visibility 50 Africa’ list

    Wizkid, Otedola, Selman make Kehinde Ajose’s inaugural ‘Visibility 50 Africa’ list

    Kehinde Ajose, a seasoned visibility strategist and PR expert, has unveiled the inaugural 2025 edition of The Visibility 50 Africa. Powered by Visibility Solutions Media (VSM), this “Inspire Africa” initiative is the first curated documentation project of its kind, highlighting 50 African personalities and brands across entertainment, business, politics, faith, thought leadership, sports, and diaspora influence.

    Ajose, the founder of VSM, launched the project to showcase individuals whose strategic public positioning has achieved measurable global impact. Among the high-profile names featured are music icon Wizkid, business mogul Femi Otedola, and influential Christian leader Apostle Joshua Selman.

    “For Africa to truly take its place on the global stage, we must do more than create value; we must document and showcase it to the world,” Ajose said. “In an era where information is abundant but attention is scarce, being seen, heard, and remembered is no longer a luxury, it’s a strategic necessity.

    The 2025 list celebrates leaders who have dominated their fields through intentional branding. In music, it features global stars Burna Boy, Tems, and cultural architect Don Jazzy. In corporate and tech, innovators like Dr. Foluso Amusa, Tolulope Joshua Oginni, and AI pioneer Agbolade Omowole are recognized.

    The initiative also highlights creative talents Kiekie and Bimbo Ademoye, cinematic storytellers Olajide Ajose and Titilola Ajayi, and humanitarian leader Clare Ezeakacha. In tech and policy, cybersecurity expert Chukwuebuka Johncollins Onyechi and Dr. Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji are spotlighted for their leadership.

    Supported by partners including Mascot IT, Jide Ajose Productions, and Clare Cares Foundation, The Visibility 50 Africa aims to serve as a practical reference for the industry. “Your story deserves to be told, but you must be the one to tell it,” Ajose concluded. “If you are not seen, you are invisible to your market.”

    Others on the list are Chude Jideonwo,  Victoire Mahounou, Jessica OS, Tems, Burna Boy, Davido and a host of other inspirational Africans.

  • How Bright Urhobo is positioning African creativity on World stage

    How Bright Urhobo is positioning African creativity on World stage

    Global fashion today is driven by collaboration the meeting of cultures, ideas, craftsmanship, and markets across borders. In this evolving landscape, Bright Urhobo, Creative Director of Ranto Clothings, represents a new kind of African creative leader: one who understands that collaboration is not about dilution of identity, but about strategic exchange and mutual respect. His work demonstrates how African fashion can engage globally without losing its soul.

    Bright Urhobo approaches global collaboration with clarity and confidence. Rather than adapting African fashion to fit external expectations, he positions it as an equal contributor to global style conversations. Ranto Clothings is built on the belief that African designers bring unique value cultural intelligence, craftsmanship, and storytelling that global fashion ecosystems increasingly seek. This mindset allows collaboration to occur on balanced terms, where African creativity is not consumed, but recognized and respected.

    At the heart of Urhobo’s collaborative philosophy is authenticity. Every potential partnership whether with international stylists, creatives, artisans, or fashion platforms must align with the brand’s values. This intentionality ensures that collaborations enhance the Ranto identity rather than compromise it. In a global industry often driven by trends and commercial urgency, Urhobo’s approach stands out for its discipline and long-term thinking.

    Global fashion collaboration, as practiced by Bright Urhobo, also extends beyond aesthetics into systems and knowledge exchange. He views collaboration as an opportunity to learn, share production standards, explore sustainable practices, and expand African fashion’s access to global markets. This perspective elevates collaboration from visibility-driven partnerships to value-driven relationships that strengthen the entire fashion ecosystem.

    Importantly, Urhobo challenges the historic imbalance in global fashion collaborations involving African brands. Instead of Africa serving only as inspiration, Ranto Clothings participates as a creative authority. Through refined design language and consistent brand storytelling, Urhobo ensures that African fashion enters global spaces with confidence, credibility, and commercial viability.

    His vision reflects the future of global fashion itself one that is no longer dominated by a single geography, but shaped by interconnected voices. In this future, African brands are collaborators, not contributors on the margins. Bright Urhobo’s work illustrates how intentional leadership, strong identity, and strategic partnerships can reposition African fashion as a global force.

    Through Ranto Clothings, Bright Urhobo proves that global collaboration does not require compromise. Instead, when guided by clarity and purpose, it becomes a powerful tool for cultural exchange, economic growth, and global relevance. In redefining how African fashion collaborates with the world, Urhobo is not only expanding his brand’s reach he is helping reshape the global fashion narrative itself.

  • Senator Kalu replies Otti, says Tinubu, APC will win Abia in 2027

    Senator Kalu replies Otti, says Tinubu, APC will win Abia in 2027

    Former Abia State Governor and current Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has dismissed threats from Governor Alex Otti, asserting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates will secure a landslide victory in the state in the 2027 general elections.

    Gov. Otti had recently vowed to prevent Senator Kalu from returning to the Senate in 2027.

    Speaking to journalists at his Igbere country home on Thursday, following the distribution of food items to his constituents and party members across all 17 local government areas, Kalu challenged the governor and his party to an electoral contest. He expressed confidence that the APC would achieve overwhelming success in the forthcoming elections, contrary to Otti’s predictions.

    Questioning why the governor and his media team were upset with his political engagement, Kalu stated, “You know that I have not for once said anything about the state government.”

    “I consider the governor as my friend and for two years I have never criticised the governor.

    “No governor can deny that he isn’t aware of whatever that his Chief Press Secretary writes. 

    “Three days ago they shot the first arrow because I said that I will work for the APC to win.

    “In 2023, we worked for him to win and we are not going to do that again; We will work for our party to win. What is wrong with that? Is that why I should receive insults? That is not acceptable to me and I am going to work for my party.

    “I worked for him (Otti). Even my brother who was running for governor in APP (All Peoples Party), I called him to cooperate with him (Otti) because we are going to support him and that is the truth.”

    Assessing Otti’s government in the past two years, Senator Kalu said “If he has done better, I don’t know about that because the money that I received in eight years is what Alex Otti receives in four months.

    “He is just repainting and rebuilding the roads that I built as a governor between 1999 and 2007.

    “I have not seen any new major road that he has done.

    “I am in the Senate. All the roads that I am doing now are new farm roads. I have not seen him go into farm road.

    “By two years time, I have done what people believed in this state which made then President Olusegun Obasanjo named me “Action Governor “.

    “Under my watch in Abia, education was free, healthcare services was free. The truth is that, I have not seen what they have done.

    “I know that he has tried rebuilding the road that I did; Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Ohafia road, which has stayed for so long (two years) before completion. I don’t know what they have done and why the noise in th social media. This business is not done on social media, it is done on the right time.

    “My support for him is gone. It’s for the APC now.”

    On the statement that he will fail in his Senatorial ambition in 2027, Kalu said, “history will show who will fail.

    “Otti said that people should write their Will. I have never rigged election before. Nobody has ever accused me of that and I don’t so that.

    “Even the people that took me to court didn’t take me to court that I rigged election anywhere and I don’t do that and I don’t support that. We want the will of the people to prevail.

    “This is two years to the election and I want to tell you that we are very prepared. I can tell you that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will win the state. We will win the three Senatorial District Seats and you will see it.

    “I am on the field. Before, I use to sit in Igbere, but now, I will leave my gate for the general good of the party.”

    He refuted that APC in the state was balkanised, stressing that goal of every member of the APC in the state is to win election.

    “I am not sure that Otti is going to join APC. I am not the owner of the party, if he (Otti) joins the party, well, what happened in 2023 will happen again.”

    My words to abians is that, the OUK that they know is back. I am back in the field. They know that when I am in the field, the masses will rejoice. I am back because I want to be back.

    Asked why he was going back to the senate, Kalu said “What am I doing in the senate that other senators are not doing? You can see that the development here is unprecedented.

    “I can beat my chest to say that not up to 20 senators out of the 109 have done what I have done there in six years.

    “Abia North and Abia State will be shortchanging themselves if they don’t send me back to the Senate.

    “I am building roads and schools in Isiala Ngwa, I am building roads in Aba and every other place even though I am from Abia North.”

    On perceived performance of Southeast political leaders who are not at par with their counterparts in other parts of the country, Kalu said “the President is the President of Nigeria and we are still Senators of Nigeria. We are still running paripasu. The class of 1999 is so blessed by God. President Yar’ Adua was class of 1999. President Tinubu is class of 1999. Maybe after the President, another class of 1999 will become the President of the country.

    On creation of more states, the former Abia governor said “I cannot talk about state creation because constitutional amendment is a very difficult issue and if the President has the Will to do it and members of the National Assembly are united together, there will be creation of another state and I support creation of one state out of the existing five states.

    “My opinion might be different from other persons opinion. For me, they should take somewhere in Imo, Anambra and Delta with capital in Oguta. I don’t care what name that they will call it, I have said this times without number. I am a man with fair mindedness and one who speaks the truth at all times. I believe that if the Igbos will come together and pursue the state that I am proposing, it will be me more viable.”

  • Auchi Kingdom peaceful, progressive community in Edo – Okpebholo

    Auchi Kingdom peaceful, progressive community in Edo – Okpebholo

    Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has described Auchi Kingdom as peaceful and one of the most progressive communities in the state.

    Okpebholo made the remark at the 29th edition of the Auchi Day Celebration of Allah Most High, held in Auchi, the Headquarters of Etsako West LGA of Edo, on Thursday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the book: “Otaru Aliru Momoh of Auchi Sacred Kingdom” was presented to the guests at the colourful event.

    Okpebholo, represented by the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Godwin Eshieshe, said the reign of the Otaru of Auchi, Aliru Momoh, had brought peace and tranquility to the community.

    “I want to congratulate our royal father for achieving this feat of 30 years on this throne.

    “I also congratulate him on his 92nd anniversary on this earthly world.

    “We take Auchi as a case study. The community has a very stable administrative processes, which the Otaru has entrenched, the governor said.

    He regretted that most communities in the state had issues, agitations, adding that the Otaru had ensured that peace and unity reigned in the area.

    “That cohesion has brought Auchi together and it is moving on the right direction.

    “I want to congratulate the Otaru for this noble feat,” he said.

    Okpebholo further lauded the Otaru “for speaking truth to power at all time.

    Read Also: Okpebholo affirms commitment to people-centred development in Edo

    “The Otaru has always stood firm and tall in all his decisions.

    “He has always been there in terms of wise counsel.

    “He is an icon and a builder of peace,” he said.

    The governor purchased five copies of the book for N5 million on behalf of the State Government.

    “And I should further inform us that the government will make sure some of the books are bought and sent to respective ministries,” he said.

    Also speaking, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole thanked the Otaru for supporting him through out his political journey.

    Oshiomhole commended the Otaru for his exemplary leadership qualities and effectively piloting the affairs of the community.

    “The Otaru has been there for me throughout my political journey.

    “All of us have respect for his leadership and today I feel very proud to be here to participate in the celebration of his biography.

    “Our royal father command the respect of his people.

    “I want to congratulate him on his 30 years on the throne and wish him long life on earth.

    “May Almighty Allah bless him and keep him safe in the kingdom” Oshiomhole prayed.

    Earlier, the Otaru thanked the governor and other traditional rulers for their unwavering support to him.

    “I thank you all for the prayers and encouragement individually and collectively.

    “I want to also thank sons and daughters of Auchi Sacred Kingdom for their good work, prayers, love and support.

    “The youths, I thank you for your patience and vibrancy, as well as the vigilance team for maintaining peace and fighting against insecurity.

    “I urge you all to continue to seek Allah’s praises, guidance and protection.

    “May he vanquish all evil in Auchi Kingdom and Nigeria in general and bless our communities with peace and prosperity,” the Otaru prayed.

    (NAN)

  • College hails Aseyin’s support

    College hails Aseyin’s support

    The Management of Iseyin College of Science and Health Technology has commended the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola, for unwavering support towards the development of the institution.

    A statement by the Proprietor of the College, Sunday Owoseni, said the institution has benefited so much from Aseyin through constant engagement on issues relating to welfare of students. 

    Owoseni stated that Aseyin and stakeholders of development in Iseyinland have always been pillars of support for the institution.

    He said: “We appreciate him for this because he is invariably planting a successful future for our institution and Iseyin community, ours is a College saddled with the responsibility of breeding students that will make impacts in the healthcare industry and we assure our stakeholders for supporting us to achieve this lofty goals, we promise never to fail you.”

    Owoseni congratulated students of the institution on new academic programmes, which begin on Monday January 12, 2026, promising that all efforts were in place to make the academic year a smooth one.

    He charged them to continue to put their academic endeavors first.