The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Institution pledges commitment to academic excellence, practical relevance

    Institution pledges commitment to academic excellence, practical relevance

    The American Open University, Nigeria said it remains committed to offering forward-thinking programmes that combine academic excellence with practical relevance.

    The institution also said its equipped students with industry-recognised certifications and global perspectives needed to thrive in the digital age.

    A statement by the Registrar of the institution said it is positioned as transformative academic hub, designed to prepare students for future of work in a rapidly evolving global digital economy. 

    The statement noted that beyond conventional teaching, it serves as a launchpad for digital skills, innovation and global competitiveness.

    The university explained that its mission, tagged “Reposition. Reskill. Reinvent.”, is anchored on the EDGE instructional framework—Educate, Develop, Grow and Empower—aimed at enabling students to learn locally while earning globally. 

    It stressed that its flexible, competency-based model is designed to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.

    The institution also announced commencement of admissions into its tech-focused Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), top-up and degree conversion programmes for the 2025/2026 academic session.

    The university said the new admission cycle marks a significant step in its vision to redefine higher education in West Africa through industry-engaged, technology-driven learning.

    Read Also: NYCN seeks criminalisation of ransom payments to end kidnappings in Nigeria

    “The admission exercise targets three major categories of applicants: direct entry and transfer students including NCE, ND and NID holders; degree conversion and top-up candidates such as HND holders, third-class degree holders and chartered professionals (ICAN, CIPM, CIBN, CITN); as well as professionals seeking to pivot into high-demand technology careers.

    “Available NUC-approved programmes are offered under the College of Technology and the College of Business. In the College of Technology, programmes include B.Sc. Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering and Information Technology, with specialisations spanning artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital forensics and full-stack development.

    “Under the College of Business, applicants can choose from B.Sc. Business Administration, Business Information Technology, Entrepreneurship and Public Administration, with options in digital governance, data analytics, technology entrepreneurship and corporate finance.

    “The university stated that its admission philosophy places emphasis on clarity of purpose, adding that all applicants are required to submit a 500–750 word statement of purpose outlining their motivation and career goals. 

    “Candidates are also expected to demonstrate digital readiness by passing a digital skills test, with a free preparatory course provided for those requiring additional support.”

  • Kaduna flags off enlightenment programme for 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims 

    Kaduna flags off enlightenment programme for 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims 

    The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (KSPWA) has flagged off its Public Enlightenment Programme, popularly known as BITA, as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj operations.

    The programme was officially launched at the Kinkinau Qur’anic Recitation Centre in Kaduna, at the weekend, marking the commencement of intensive sensitisation for intending pilgrims across the state.

    Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of the Agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, represented by the Administrative Secretary, Malam Baba Rufa’i, described BITA as a critical component of the Agency’s Hajj planning process.

    He said the enlightenment programme is designed to educate and properly prepare intending pilgrims spiritually, physically and administratively for the sacred journey to the Holy Land.

    According to him, the programme will cover key areas including Hajj rites and obligations, health and safety measures, Saudi Arabian laws and regulations, discipline, patience, good conduct, as well as unity and cooperation among pilgrims.

    Abubakar stressed that a well-informed pilgrim is a successful pilgrim, noting that the initiative is aimed at reducing mistakes, eliminating confusion and ensuring full compliance with established Hajj guidelines.

    He reiterated that the welfare of Kaduna State pilgrims remains the top priority of the present administration, assuring that the Agency is committed to delivering a safe, comfortable and spiritually rewarding Hajj experience.

    Read Also: 974 Nigerians awaits deportation from Canada

    The Chairman also disclosed that the ongoing reconstruction of the Kaduna State Hajj Transit Camp at Mando is progressing steadily and will be completed before the commencement of the 2026 Hajj operations.

    He explained that upon completion, the camp will meet modern and international standards, with improved accommodation, enhanced sanitation, better medical services and a more organised environment for pilgrims.

    Abubakar expressed gratitude to Governor Uba Sani for his support and commitment to pilgrims’ welfare, while urging intending pilgrims to take the BITA sessions seriously and adhere strictly to all guidelines, even as he commended Islamic scholars, facilitators and media partners for their support.

  • Muslim leaders urge Sanwo Olu to restore historic Shitta Bey Mosque

    Muslim leaders urge Sanwo Olu to restore historic Shitta Bey Mosque

    Muslim leaders in Lagos have urged Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu to take the lead in restoring the historic 134 year-old Shitta Bey Mosque, following the fire that destroyed the iconic Islamic landmark on Lagos Island in December 2025.

    The appeal was made in a formal letter addressed to the governor and copied to the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, after the blaze razed the mosque alongside the Great Nigerian House and other buildings on Nnamdi Azikwe Street on December 24.

    Writing on behalf of the Jumu’atul Muslimeen Council, the Executive Council of the Lagos Central Mosque, and the Bashorun in Council of Olowogbowo Division, the Muslim leadership described the destruction of the mosque as a major cultural and historical loss to Lagos State and the wider Muslim Ummah in Nigeria.

    They said the Shitta Bey Mosque, also known as Moshalashi Shitta Bey, was not only a place of worship but a living monument that had anchored Islamic life, commerce and community on Lagos Island for over a century.

    The leaders noted that the mosque remained the main Ratibi mosque in the Lagos Island central business district, serving thousands of Muslim traders and worshippers who performed daily prayers there throughout the week.

    They expressed confidence that the restoration of the mosque to greater glory would be most effectively achieved if led directly by the governor and his administration, given the structure’s national heritage status and deep historical roots.

    Completed in 1891, the Shitta Bey Mosque was built entirely through the personal resources of Chief Muhammad Shitta Bey, formerly known as William Shitta, a renowned Lagos merchant, philanthropist and Islamic leader.

    Read Also: NYCN seeks criminalisation of ransom payments to end kidnappings in Nigeria

    The ceremonial opening of the mosque took place on July 4, 1891, in the presence of the then colonial Governor Carter, alongside international dignitaries who represented the Sultan of Turkey and later conferred on Chief Shitta the prestigious title of Bey.

    In recognition of his contributions to Islam, Muslim elders in Lagos had earlier named him the first Seriki Musulumi of Lagos and later acknowledged him as Baba Ajo, a position equivalent to the present Baba Adinni.

    The mosque, admired for its Brazilian and Portuguese architectural influences, was later designated a national monument by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments in recognition of its architectural, cultural and religious importance.

    Beyond the Shitta Bey Mosque, the appeal recalled Chief Shitta Bey’s role in reconstructing the Lagos Central Mosque in 1873, replacing its earlier mud structure with more durable materials and elevating it to a standard befitting its status at the time.

    The Muslim leaders described the Shitta Bey Mosque as a symbol of unity, sacrifice, philanthropy and enterprise, values they said defined the life and legacy of its founder and shaped the growth of Islam in Lagos.

  • Olaniyan joins Oyo House of Representatives race

    Olaniyan joins Oyo House of Representatives race

    The Founder of DOTYES-I, Dr. Abdulraheem Olaniyan has declared intention to contest as a member of Federal House of Representatives for Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola in 2027 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    He said he was ready to serve the constituency with justice, equity and transparency.

    Speaking during a meeting with leaders and stakeholders of APC in Iseyin Local Government area, Olaniyan said the party will not regret entrusting him with the ticket.

    He noted that his background and impact in the people were gravitate votes in the region. 

    He sought the prayers, guidance and unwavering support of party elders, leaders and stakeholders in the four local government areas as he embarked on the journey to serve people of the Federal Constituency.

    He assured the leaders and the entire people in the Constituency of his commitment to a purposeful leadership, inclusive representation and advancement of collective interests.

    While expressing readiness to serve the people better, Olaniyan stated “together with unity and support, this vision can be achieved”.

    Read Also: Osimhen: Onyedika Nigeria’s most underrated player

    Olaniyan, also attended the APC general meeting at L. A.  Demonstration, Oluwole where he donated 11 sets of public address system to executive of 11 wards in Iseyin Local Government area to help in the propagation of the party in their respective wards.

    He hinted that he had eight good years experience as a Senior Legislative Aide to a member of Federal House of Representatives, adding that the party will never regret giving him the ticket to contest. 

    He celebrated the beginning of another new year by giving free fuel to 400 commercial motorcyclists and tricyclists to reduce cost of transportation in the Federal Constituency.

    The aspirant paid homage to Aseyin of Iseyinland, Oba Dr. Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Ajirotutu 1-Adeyeri III who commended his courage to come out boldly to aspire, urging him and every other aspirant to see the contest from the spirit of sportsmanship.

  • AFCON on SuperSport: Knockout stage raises stakes for Nigeria, others

    AFCON on SuperSport: Knockout stage raises stakes for Nigeria, others

    The Africa Cup of Nations moves into its knockout phase this weekend, signalling a clear shift from calculated group-stage management to outright survival as the Round of 16 begins across Morocco.

    After two weeks of fluctuating forms, Nigeria enter the knockout rounds among the tournament’s most convincing performers, completing the group stage with a perfect record. The Super Eagles scored freely, rotated their squad effectively and secured qualification with a game to spare. However, a late scare in their 3–2 victory over Tunisia served as a reminder of the fine margins that now define the competition.

    Algeria also advance with maximum points, showing a level of control absent in recent editions, while Egypt once again relied on structure and efficiency to progress. In contrast, defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and perennial contenders Cameroon qualified without the same assurance, both dropping points and facing renewed scrutiny ahead of the last-16 ties.

    The group stage also reshaped expectations beyond the traditional favourites. Benin recorded their first-ever AFCON win to reach the knockouts, while Mozambique secured a historic Round of 16 place after a dramatic comeback victory over Gabon. Sudan’s progression from a challenging group further highlighted the depth and unpredictability of the tournament.

    Those storylines now converge in the Round of 16, where established contenders meet opponents carrying confidence and little to lose. Nigeria face Mozambique, Algeria take on DR Congo, and Egypt meet Benin, while heavyweight pairings such as South Africa versus Cameroon and Ivory Coast against Burkina Faso add further edge to the schedule.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Egypt friendly in doubt as NFF shift camp to Morocco

    With the tournament now reduced to single-elimination football, early momentum matters less than decision-making under pressure, squad depth and in-game discipline. For teams that dominated the group stage, the challenge is sustaining intensity. For those who scraped through, the opportunity is reinvention.

    All AFCON Round of 16 matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport via the dedicated AFCON channel on DStv Channel 202 and GOtv Channel 59, with Open Access available to DStv Yanga and GOtv Jolli subscribers.

    As AFCON enters its most unforgiving phase, strong beginnings fade into memory. From here on, every mistake carries consequence, and every moment can define a tournament.

  • Goldberg captures Super Eagles’ momentum ahead of knockout stage

    Goldberg captures Super Eagles’ momentum ahead of knockout stage

    As the Super Eagles head into the knockout phase of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the back of a perfect group-stage run, Goldberg Lager Beer has unveiled a new television commercial (TVC) celebrating Nigeria’s deep-rooted football passion and the shared rhythm that unites fans across the country.

    Super Eagles won all three of its group matches to finish top of its group, reigniting optimism among supporters and setting up a Round of 16 clash against Mozambique’s Mambas. With expectations rising, Goldberg’s new TVC positions the brand at the intersection of football excellence and the vibrant fan culture that has long defined the Super Eagles’ journey.

    The commercial, built around Goldberg’s ‘Our Beat, Our Gold’ campaign, draws inspiration from every day match-day moments familiar to Nigerian fans. From neighbourhood viewing centres and street corners to living rooms and bars, the TVC captures how football weaves itself into daily life — with Goldberg present as a natural companion to those shared experiences.

    Rather than focusing solely on goals and highlights, the TVC places the spotlight on the fans: their chants, banter, rituals and collective emotions as they follow the Super Eagles. It reflects the belief that Nigerian football is not just about what happens on the pitch, but about the passion and togetherness that surround every match.

     “As the Super Eagles move into the knockout phase, this campaign is our way of celebrating the people who have carried the team with their energy from the group stage,” said the Senior Brand Manager, Kunle Aroyehun, Goldberg.

    Read Also: 16th Round: NFF agree to pay Super Eagles $30,000 each

     “Goldberg has always stood for pride, culture and shared moments. This film shows how football, especially when the Super Eagles are playing, brings Nigerians together in a way nothing else does.”

    The timing of the TVC aligns with growing national excitement as Nigeria prepares to face Mozambique in the Round of 16.As the Official Beer and Sponsor of the Super Eagles, Goldberg’s connection to Nigerian football runs deep. Since Nigerian Breweries Plc signed its partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation in February of 2018, the brand has played a visible role in galvanising fans and building one of the strongest national team followings on the continent.

    According to Aroyehun, the new TVC reflects that long-standing commitment: “This is not about a single match or result. It’s about a relationship with the fans that has grown over time. As the Super Eagles chase another win in the knockout stage, Goldberg will continue to be part of those moments — the anticipation, the tension and the celebration.”

  • AHOY CATALAN DERBY: High stake as bitter rivals Espanyol, Barcelona duel tonight

    AHOY CATALAN DERBY: High stake as bitter rivals Espanyol, Barcelona duel tonight

    By Daniel Akinte

    Espanyol have enjoyed an excellent 2025-26 campaign to date, with Manolo Gonzalez’s side boasting a record of 10 wins, three draws and four defeats from their 17 matches to sit fifth in the La Liga table, five points ahead of sixth-placed Real Betis.

    The White and Blues finished 14th  in Spain’s top flight last season, so there was clear room for improvement this term, and it has been an impressive campaign to date.

    Espanyol have not finished higher than seventh in La Liga since claiming fifth in 2004-05, so there is plenty on the line this term, and the Catalan outfit will enter this match in strong form, having been victorious in each of their last five league games against Sevilla, Celta Vigo, Rayo Vallecano, Getafe and Athletic Bilbao.

    Periquitos have incredibly not managed to beat Barcelona at home in La Liga since January 2007, while their last league success was a 2-1 win at Camp Nou in February 2009.

    Read Also: NFF issues AFCON 2025 final ultimatum to Chelle

    Espanyol have been largely impressive at home this season, boasting a record of six wins, one draw and two defeats from their nine league games in front of their own supporters.

    Barcelona, meanwhile, have won each of their last seven matches in all competitions, including a 2-0 success over Villarreal in their final match of 2025.

    The Catalan outfit have triumphed in their last eight league games, with a total of 46 points from 18 matches leaving them top of the table, four points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, with Los Blancos having a wobble towards the end of the year.

    Barcelona have comfortably the best attacking record in La Liga this season, scoring 51 times, but they have conceded 20, which is the most in the top seven, and that will be concerning for head coach Hansi Flick at this stage of the season.

    Blaugrana are looking to record a fourth straight win over Espanyol, but they did drop two points against their Catalan rivals at RCDE Stadium in February 2022.

    Barcelona’s attention will switch to the Spanish Super Cup after this match, preparing to head to Saudi Arabia to tackle Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals of the tournament, ahead of a potential final against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.

  • AFCON: FG releases N3b for Super Eagles campaign

    AFCON: FG releases N3b for Super Eagles campaign

    Nigerian government has so far released the sum of N3b for the Super Eagles 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco, DAILY POST reports. 

    According to SCORENigeria, the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, are expecting more money to cover the Super Eagles’  mounting tournament expenses.    

    Read Also: NFF issues AFCON 2025 final ultimatum to Chelle               

     The NFF has agreed to pay the players $30,000 each for reaching the Round of 16 in the competition.                 

    Eric Chelle’s men will earn additional bonus should they beat Mozambique in their next game.         

     They will face the Mambas at the Complexe Sportif de Fès next week Monday. Should they progress, the Super Eagles will face either Algeria or Democratic Republic of Congo in the quarter-finals.

  • Owumi to club owners: protect your NPFL brand

    Owumi to club owners: protect your NPFL brand

     Davidson Owumi, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Chief Operating Officer on the second day of the new year penned a sweetheart letter to the Chairmen and General Managers of the 20 participating clubs, urging them to guard the reputation of the league as a commercial asset.

    In the memo titled, “Protecting and Building the NPFL Brand”, the former league top scorer assured the clubs of fairness, excellence and neutrality in leading the administrative secretariat of the league operations

    “At the Secretariat and operational level, our commitment to excellence and fairness remains firm as we go into the crucial part of the season”, he stated. He commended the club administrators for their cooperation which ensured a near smooth running of the first stanza, and appealed for increased and improved level of adherence to the rules.

    Read Also: Morocco 2025:  NFF launches NAIJA 4 THE WIN campaign for Super Eagles

    Owumi then charged them to be the chief marketing officers of the league by guarding against unsavoury public commentary that dents the market viability of the NPFL.

    “It is very important to remind all of us that we have a responsibility to protect and build the NPFL asset for the good of all stakeholders.

    “As club leaders, you are the first Ambassadors of the NPFL because the league entity belongs to you. There will be no league without the 20 participating Clubs, hence your prime place in the affairs of the league cannot be over emphasised”.

  • Osimhen: Onyedika Nigeria’s most underrated player

    Osimhen: Onyedika Nigeria’s most underrated player

    Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, has suggested that midfielder Raphael Onyedika is the most underrated player representing Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, in Morocco. Osimhen lauded Onyedika’s contributions to Eric Chelle’s side, pointing out that the Club Brugge star has not received the recognition he deserves, especially after scoring two goals in the recent match against Uganda.“

    Read Also: NFF  suspends many referees to protect game integrity

    Onyedika has been one of our best players, and most of the time, he does not get the hype he deserves,” Osimhen remarked, as reported by Flashscore.

    “He is really a talented player, and for the performance he delivered against Uganda, I believe he deserves to be in the spotlight.”               

     Onyedika will aim to be a key player for Nigeria in their upcoming AFCON Round of 16 clash against Mozambique on Monday.