The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Ex-Edo Deputy Gov Shaibu declares support for APC’s Okpebholo

    Ex-Edo Deputy Gov Shaibu declares support for APC’s Okpebholo

    Former Edo Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu has declared support for the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo September 21 poll Senator Monday Okpebholo. 

    He described the APC standard bearer as one of the two home boys among the 16 candidates.

    The other home boy, he said, is the governorship candidate of Labour Party (LP) Olumide Akpata, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). 

    He said the two home boys possess the characteristics to truly move Edo forward. 

    Shaibu, a former member of the House of Representatives, spoke with reporters at St. Paul Catholic Church on Airport Road, Benin during the Fathers’ Day celebration. 

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    He described the standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, a product of godfatherism, which, according to him, former Governor Senator Adams Oshiomhole fought against. 

    He said: “I will support a home boy. I came in to contest to be the Governor of Edo State, because I needed governance to return to a home boy, somebody who understands our plight, somebody who understands what the people are feeling. Even the United Nations talks about the NEEDS assessment.

    “We do not want an outsider. We have experimented with an outsider, and it is not working. So, this time round, we want a homeboy. I came into the contest as a home boy, but today, we have only two home boys in the major political parties: one is in the LP, and the other is in APC. I decided to follow the home boy in the APC.  

    “Asue Ighodalo they are parading in the PDP is an outsider, and we have also agreed that no more godfatherism in Edo. The man PDP is parading is the godson of Governor Godwin Obaseki. There is no way a godson can be governor of Edo State again.

    “I am a very good learner. Learning is what is most important in our lives. We must continue to learn till we die. Obaseki says everybody has the right to support whoever he wants to support, but he also forgets that he does not have the right to stop anybody from supporting whoever he wants to support. So, it is my right to also decide who I want to support.”

    Shaibu, an ex-President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), also maintained that he cannot be accused of anti-party activity for supporting APC’s governorship candidate while he is still a member of the PDP.

    He said: “It is not an anti-party activity. In the last election, Obaseki was one leg in LP, and the other leg in PDP. So, my decision cannot be described as anti-party activity.”

    The former Edo Majority Leader maintained that APC’s Okpebholo, a grassroots politician, has the experience, capacity and capability to move the State to the next level.

    He said: “Enough of English that takes us nowhere. We are talking about good governance. Okpebholo understands the plight of Edo residents. He who wears the shoe knows where it pinches. Asue Ighodalo, who has never voted in any election, how can he be seeking for our votes?

    “Why are some people comparing Asue Ighodalo, a Lagos-based lawyer, with Okpebholo, a sitting senator (of Edo Central Senatorial District), who is really a home boy?

    “When Olumide Akpata and Okpebholo get home to their people, they will speak their languages, unlike Asue Ighodalo.”

  • CAC cleric Ologbonyo felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir

    CAC cleric Ologbonyo felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir

    A cleric with the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Boanerges, Prophet Adegboyega Ologbonyo, has rejoiced with Muslims over Sallah celebration.

    Ologbonyo, the planter of CAC Boanerges, extended heartfelt greetings and well wishes to all Muslim brothers and sisters in Nigeria and across the globe.

    A statement by the cleric encouraged everyone to reflect on values of empathy, generosity, and mutual respect that are at the heart of both our faiths.

    He said: “I sincere hope that this

    Eid-a-Adha brings a renewed spirit of love and compassion among all Nigerians.

    Read Also: Eid-el-Kabir: Prophet Olu-Alo felicitates Muslim, says Nigeria will bounce back

    “I believe that unity and peaceful co-existence are the bedrock upon

    which our nation can build a brighter future for all its citizens.”

    He urged all Nigerians, regardless of faith or creed, to come together in the spirit of brotherhood and work

    towards common goal of national development.

    “In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to hold fast to our shared values and aspirations,” he added. 

    He called upon all leaders and citizens to embody the virtues of patience, humility, and charity for the greater good and by showing kindness and support to those in need. 

    “Let us remember that our diversity is a

    source of strength, and by standing united, we can overcome any obstacle.”

    Ologbonyo emphasised the importance of dialogue and understanding among different communities, calling on everyone to engage in conversations that bridge gaps and foster an environment where peace and harmony

    prevail.

  • Eid-el-Kabir: CAN urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Eid-el-Kabir: CAN urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    As Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh has advised Nigerians to embrace peace and unity. 

    Okoh urged Nigerians to embody the values of sacrifice, obedience, and faith in daily lives. 

    The CAN boss called on all to set aside differences, heed the call for unity and peace, and trust in God’s promise for a better Nigeria. 

    A statement on Sunday by Okoh said: “Our nation is in dire need of God’s mercy, peace, and unity.

    “This festival symbolizing sacrifice, obedience, and faith, I, on behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), extend warm felicitations to our Muslim brothers and sisters.

    “In the face of current challenges, let us unite in love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Let us pray for divine intervention in our security, economic, and political struggles. May God’s comfort and strength support the displaced, the bereaved, and the traumatized.

    Read Also: Eid-el-Kabir: Prophet Olu-Alo felicitates Muslim, says Nigeria will bounce back

    “As the Muslim Ummah celebrate this festival, let us remember that our nation deeply needs God’s mercy, peace, and unity. Let us work together to build a Nigeria where all citizens can thrive, regardless of religion, tribe, or creed. Our diversity is strength, and together, we can overcome any obstacle.

    “I call on all Nigerians to embrace peace, love, and forgiveness. Let us pray for divine intervention in our national struggles and strive towards building a united andy prosperous Nigeria. Let us remember the displaced, bereaved, and traumatized, offering them our support and solidarity.

    “May God bless Nigeria and grant us peace, unity, and prosperity”.

  • 10 safest African countries to visit in 2024

    10 safest African countries to visit in 2024

    According to The Global Peace Index (GPI), here are the top ten safest countries to visit, according to the World Population Review insights for 2024.

    1. Ghana

     With a GPI score of 1.759, Ghana is the second-safest country in Africa and sits at position 40 on the Global Peace Index. Although Ghana fell five positions between 2018 and 2019, it has rebounded since and is now considered safer than several popular travel destinations, including France, Greece, Jamaica, Argentina, South Korea, and the United States.

    The West African country offers a wide range of attractions, from wildlife viewing and safaris to sun-soaked beaches and on to vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.

    2. Mauritius

     Mauritius is Africa’s safest country to visit, with a GPI score of 1.570. It is also ranked as the 28th safest country in the world. Mauritius is a multicultural island nation that is family-friendly, peaceful, and secure for visitors.

    The East African nation is a haven for tourists, with attractions that include beaches and lagoons, reef dives, water activities, the “seven-coloured earth” of the Chamarel, and lush forests filled with wildlife. Mauritius has a very low crime rate overall, and what minor crime does occur tends to be non-violent, such as petty theft.

    3. Gambia

    With a population of about 2.28 million people and a GPI score of 1.792, The Gambia ranked as the 45th-safest country in the world and third in Africa.

    Leisure tourism is a huge part of the Gambia economy, known for its mix of “sun, sand, sea, nature, and varied cultural experience.”

    4. Botswana

    Botswana is the fourth safest African country. Ranked at position 48 on the GPI with 1.801, Botswana is a popular tourist destination due to attractions that include Chobe National Park, game reserves, and the Tsolido World Heritage site.

    The Southern Africa nation’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve, with its fossilised river valleys and undulating grasslands, is home to numerous animals, including giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs.

    5. Sierra Leone

     Sierra Leone, with 1.803 GPI, is a coastal nation in West Africa, known for its vast and numerous beaches, as well as its rainforests and wildlife preserves.

    The country has a GPI ranking of 50th in the world. While Sierra Leone is traditionally safe to visit, local police often lack the training and capacity to respond effectively to violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery, which occur most often in Freetown, its capital city, and civil unrest can provoke demonstrations and protests that could be best avoided.

    6. Zambia

     With a 1.841 GPI score, Zambia is Africa’s sixth safest country and the 56th safest in the world. The country itself is landlocked, but gifted with spectacular waterfalls, rivers, and lakes, as well as vast open spaces and abundant wildlife, and is a top safari destination.

    7. Malawi

    The East African nation, the eighth safest African country, posted a GPI ranking of 66 with a 1.895 score, placing the country between France 65th and Cyprus 67th.

    Malawi ranked in the top 10 of travel site Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Countries list due to the country’s mix of “lake, landscape, wildlife, and culture.” Crime in Malawi is generally low, with purse-snatching and petty thefts being the largest threats.

    8. Equatorial Guinea

     One of Equatorial Guinea’s greatest tourist attractions is Monte Alen National Park, a 2000 km² preserve filled with rainforest flora, lakes and waterfalls, and wildlife ranging from gorillas to elephants. Equatorial Guinea ranked 59th in the world with 1.863 as its GPI.

    9. Namibia

     With a population of 2.5 million, Southern Africa landed in the 68th position, with 1.908 as its Global Peace Index. Namibia boasts some of Africa’s most rugged and picturesque landscapes and wildlife viewing.

    Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and a vast, scenic desert on the other, Namibia’s attractions include scenic beaches and mountains, towering dunes perfect for sunrise photos, some of the world’s least light-polluted skies for stargazing, and ample opportunities to view giraffes, lions, rhinos, and more.

    10. Senegal

    Admired for its mix of scenic beaches and forests, animal sanctuaries, and archaeological attractions, Senegal has relatively low levels of crime and disease and its people are known for being generous hosts.

    Like the Gambia, Senegal has lingering concerns about land mines and crime in the Casamance region, but is quite safe overall with 1.916 as its Global Peace Index.

  • $4.3b train 7 at 67% completion, NLNG tells Reps

    $4.3b train 7 at 67% completion, NLNG tells Reps

    The $4.3b billion Train 7 project of the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) on Bonny Island has reached 67% completion.

    Officials of the company stated this at a reconvened session of the Senate and House of Representatives’ Joint Committee on Gas (the Committee), Abuja.

    The company reaffirmed its commitment to delivering economic benefits through the Train 7 project on Bonny Island.

     The officials of the Company provided necessary information and clarifications to address issues raised by the Committee.

    NLNG External Relations and Sustainable Development, General Manager, Andy Odeh made this known in a press statement yesterday.

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     The statement noted that “NLNG confirmed that the project, with a total contract sum of $4.3 billion, has reached an overall progress of 67% completion, achieving significant construction milestone of over 45 million man-hours without any Lost Time Injury (LTI). “The Company noted that the project was already delivering on one of its benefits with over 9,000 Nigerians working in the project on Bonny Island, and numerous indirect jobs and businesses emerging and booming as a result of the construction.”

    NLNG emphasised that the Train 7 project is a strategic initiative that will support the diversification of the country’s revenue sources, revenue generation during the Energy Transition, and aid the country in achieving a net-zero future.

    It also noted that the project remained crucial for monetising Nigeria’s vast gas resources, estimated at over 200 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of proven reserves and it remains an inspiration to other gas development initiatives aimed at enhancing gas monetisation and utilisation in the country.

    The Company equally stressed the significance of the project to the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas initiative. It emphasised that the project is aligned with Nigeria’s gas development aspirations, as the outlined initiative is both timely and essential to secure the nation’s future, particularly as the global movement towards a net-zero future accelerates.

    NLNG expressed its respect for the National Assembly and committed to collaborate with the legislature to transform Nigeria’s energy landscape. It called on all stakeholders including the Federal Government and all well-meaning Nigerians to support the preservation of an enabling environment for its successful completion and the attraction of more transformational projects to Nigeria.

  • Rivers truly liberated, Fubara declares

    Rivers truly liberated, Fubara declares

    Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara has declared that he is in the office to stay asserting that no man is.more powerful than God.

    Fubara assured the people that he would make a difference in governance saying he was merely a watcher and not a controller over the affairs of the state.

    The Governor said those seeking absolute control got obsessed with power, became ruthless and delightfully trampled on the rights and liberties of the people they should ordinarily dedicate themselves to serve.

    But he said he was not like them insisting that he would continue to watch over the affairs of the state entrusted in his care with the fear of God, and make Rivers people truly proud of his time of service.

    Fubara gave the assurance at the baby dedication service in honour of the family of Mr and Mrs Henry Wordu at the Royal House of Grace International Church in Rumueme Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the State on Sunday.

    The Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, expressed appreciation to the church for its  fervent prayers.

    Read Also: Set up panel to probe outgoing council chairmen, Fubara told

    He said his government was still standing strong and daring to implement impactful policies and programmes that advanced the progress and growth of the state because of the church’s prayers 

    The Governor said no single man was more powerful than God to thwart divine purpose adding that the hearts of kings were willed to any direction by God to do His biddings.

    He said: “No man is more powerful than God. And even the heart of that wicked and heartless man or whatever you want to call it, it is even in the palm of God’s hand. 

    “It’s like a water that God turns in directions He wants. So, it’s only God that will continue to help us. And I know that He will lead us to a successful end.”

    “For us, by the special grace of God, He has placed us, today, to watch over the affairs, not to control, but watch over the affairs of this State. I am not controlling, but watching the affairs; and I will watch through the fear of God. 

    “I will watch, understanding that one day, I will leave and account for the way I had watched over the affairs for all of us.

     “It’s when you are of the mind of controlling power, that you will become obsessed. But when you are watching, you know that one day, you will leave and another will take over. 

    “So, I will watch with the fear of God, and I will make everyone of you proud. I will make a difference in leadership, and that difference will be to give everybody the opportunity to be free in this State”.

    Fubara added:  “And I am here to say thank you, first for all your prayers. A good number of you don’t even know me, have not seen me, have not had any personal contact with me, but from the time God showed His mercy upon us, you have always prayed for us, wish us well, and your prayers have always been answered by God.

    “We are only standing because of your prayers. What we have gone through in this State, no previous government had gone through it. But it is only God that has made us still standing. Not just standing, but standing in the strength of God. 

    “It is only God and God alone. Without God, it won’t and will never be possible. So, I want to thank the Almighty God for showing His mercy, His grace that none of us even merit, but He poured it on us abundantly.”

    Fubara said he was at the church service to identify with Mr Wordu, whom he described as  a wonderful and great personality, and also to be part of the dedication of their baby to God.

    He said: “So, we are here to join everyone to make the promise that we will continue to pray for this baby. We will physically support the upbringing of this child in the fear of God and in the understanding of the workings of God in the lives of everyone.

    “Nothing happens without God. He is a perfect designer. Before anything happens, He knows the end from the beginning. He already knows where he is going.

    “It’s important you understand who a successful father is. A successful father is not measured by the wealth, money, houses, but when you are surrounded by worthy children. 

    “So, my prayer is that this baby will grow to bring honour to the Henry’s family; to bring honour to this church; to bring honour to this State; and bring honour to our country, Nigeria.”

    Fubara, who urged the church to continue to pray for his administration because God had already taken charge, insisting that Rivers and its people were truly liberated by God.

    The Governor, while assuring of upholding what was right and just for the interest of the state, on behalf of the state government, donated N100million to support to the church.

    Also speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, said that Fubara meant well for the state, adding that he would continue to make progress in his governance over Rivers State.

    General Musa also noted the huge defence task undertaken by the Nigerian military to ensure sustained security of the country, and assured that they would not relent in that responsibility.

  • Man, lover found dead while having sex in Ondo

    Man, lover found dead while having sex in Ondo

    A man identified as Eric and his yet-to-be identified lover have died while having sex at an apartment located at Ayeyemi area of  Ondo town, Ondo State.

    The incident was said to have happened last Thursday.

    Ondo Police Command on Sunday said it had commenced investigation into the circumstances that led to the death of a man and his girlfriend in the State.

    Witnesses said the deceased lovers were found stuck together in a sexual position and they were both naked.

    The witnesses said it was a doctor that separated them.

    Read Also: Edo 2024: APC, PDP, INEC trade words over alleged plot to manipulate CVR

    Another witness said both lovers were electrocuted while having sex.

    According to the witness: “The generator running on their premises was still on and a phone was seeing charging on a socket placed on the bed. It may be possible that they had contact with a naked wire, resulting in their electrocution.”

    “It was relatives of the man that found them dead when they checked on him after he didn’t answer his phone calls the following day.  They looked through a window, spotted the bodies, and then broke down the door to enter.

    Ondo Police spokesman, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, who confirmed the incident , said investigation has commenced into the incident.

    ” The man and the woman are lovers known by both relatives. They died in the room but they were not stuck together. We are yet to know the cause but  investigation had commenced.

  • Eid-El-Kabir: Embrace virtues of Prophet Ibrahim, Ighodalo urges Muslims

    Eid-El-Kabir: Embrace virtues of Prophet Ibrahim, Ighodalo urges Muslims

    The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has called on the Muslim Ummah to use the occasion of the Eid-El-Kabir celebration to reflect on the teachings of Prophet Ibrahim (May Peace Be Upon Him) and strive to emulate his unwavering faith, obedience, sacrifice and dedication to the noblest of ideals.

    In his goodwill message on Sunday by his media team in Benin, Ighodalo stressed the importance of submitting to Almighty God and prioritizing spiritual well-being over worldly pleasures.

    He emphasised the necessity of selflessness, compassion, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of the faith we hold dear and the good of humanity.

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    “Today represents that special occasion that reminds all adherents of the prime place of total submission to the will of Almighty Allah in complete obedience and the need to  prioritize spiritual well-being over worldly pleasures.

     “It is also a period of sober reflection on the importance of selflessness, compassion, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of the faith we hold dear and the good of humanity,” he stated.

    Ighodalo urged the Muslim ummah to celebrate with moderation as they use the opportunity to reflect and express appreciation to Almighty Allah (SWT) for His countless bounties and to seek His forgiveness and guidance in all they do.

    “May this Eid bring us closer to our Creator, foster unity and harmony within our communities, and inspire us to be examples of compassion, generosity, and righteousness. May Almighty Allah (SWT) accept our prayers, our acts of worship, and our sacrifices during this blessed time. May He shower His blessings upon us, our loved ones, and the entire Muslim ummah. Eid Mubarak,” Ighodalo said.

  • Kwara Gov prays for peace, progress in colourful Eid-el-Kabir

    Kwara Gov prays for peace, progress in colourful Eid-el-Kabir

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has prayed to Allaah to make peace, unity, and progress permanent features of the state and Nigeria, urging citizens to unite and work for a better country.

    In a short interview after observing the Eid prayers, the Governor said: “Yesterday, the Amirul Hajj for Kwara, Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, reached out to me from the Holy land and asked for my prayer points. I said my prayer for Nigeria is unity, peace, and progress. 

    “Today, my message is same: unity, peace, and progress. For those of us who have seen today, we say AlhamduliLlaah. For those who have departed, we say may Allaah grant them Al-jannah Firdaus.”

    Read Also: Seven dead in Kwara State road accident

    The Governor arrived the Ilorin Eid praying ground with brother the Mutawali of Ilorin Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq, closely followed by Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central); House of Representatives members Ahmad Yinka Aluko and Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya; House Leader Oba Magaji; House of Assembly members; Chief of Staff Prince Abdulkadir Mahe; and many other cabinet members. 

    The prayer got underway around 10:30 a.m. after the Emir of Ilorin Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari entered the praying ground alongside the Chief Imam of Ilorin Sheikh Mohammad Bashir Soliu.

    In what underlined the peaceful atmosphere that the state enjoys under the Governor, the Eid prayer was attended by a rainbow of senior citizens, statesmen,  and title holders from across the Emirate.

    The Emir prayed for continuous peace and prosperity for the state and Nigeria, urging unity among sons and daughters of the Emirate.

  • Stardom can be challenging, says actress Juliet Jatto

    Stardom can be challenging, says actress Juliet Jatto

    Popular actress Juliet Jatto has spoken on the many challenges associated with stardom.

    She said stardom has deprived her many things and make her pay much more for goods and services. 

    Jatto, who has a BSC in Public Administration from the University of Lagos, said: “Plenty differences because with stardom Goldfish has no hiding place.  Everything  I do is in the limelight,  all eyes on me everywhere even in the market,  no place to hide but it actually consolidate the good character in me as I don’t have anything to hide. 

    “Stardom has caused me freedom. No freedom at all and I even end up buying most things at a higher than normal price.”

    The Delta-born actress also spoke on why she joined the industry. 

    Read Also: The rise of Emmanuel Chisom in Nollywood

    “Growing up I used to adore the actors and the message they passed via their movies and I felt I can also contribute my quota to humanity via acting. I felt so elated the first time I acted because that has always been my dream growing up.”

    She said starting off with the right caucus prevented her from facing many challenges in the industry 

    “I was really lucky that I didn’t face much challenge because I was surrounded with good bosses who were very supportive.  I started my acting career at Odunfa caucus and that play a major role in me not having too much challenge. With proper training and my ever supportive bosses the challenge was not much like I stated earlier,” she stressed. 

    On advice to upcoming actors, she said: “They should be very determined,  focused with character and set a target for what they intend to achieve and with perseverance they will achieve what they want. They should also avoid unnecessary backbiting or spoiling other people’s image. Focus,  loyalty,  determination is key and they should always be willing to learn. Daily improvement is key in our industry._