The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • How Closeup, its influencers are sparking a confidence movement

    How Closeup, its influencers are sparking a confidence movement

    For generations, Closeup has been the trusted brand for fresh breath and confidence. Now, the brand is going further, positioning itself as a cultural ally for Nigeria’s youth; one that encourages, empowers, and supports them to express love, show confidence, and connect without fear or judgment through its new Closer is Better campaign.

    Closer is Better is built on a simple belief: fresh breath is freedom. It’s not just about feeling confident; it’s about giving young Nigerians the courage to love louder, speak boldly, and get closer without hesitation. 

    The campaign aims to spark conversations around self-expression, connection, and closeness, reframing Closeup not only as a toothpaste brand but as a cultural companion that helps young people live fully and fearlessly.

    To bring this vision to life, Closeup hosted a vibrant Influencer Briefing Session on Thursday, 21 August 2025, at the Balmoral Event Centre, Oregun-Ikeja, Lagos State. Far from a typical campaign launch, the room buzzed with energy and conversation as the influencers were introduced as partners in spreading the message that closeness, confidence, and self-expression go hand in hand. 

    One of the major highlights of the evening was the Creators’ Pods—five dedicated sections set up across the hall, designed with unique themes—ranging from intimate settings (for the couples) to fun, lighthearted sets, props, and tools to spark creativity and support content creation.

    The day also featured interactive demo sessions that brought the Closeup promise to life in real time. Guests experienced firsthand how the toothpaste keeps breath fresh and confidence intact, no matter what was eaten, showing that with Closeup, you can enjoy your meals freely while staying fresh, bold, and ready to get closer.

    Read Also: CloseUp teams up with Laju Iren Films for ‘Danfo and the Rose’

    Speaking at the session, Twumasi Elvis, Marketing Manager, Closeup remarked, “This campaign goes beyond traditional marketing; it’s rooted in deep consumer insight. Young Nigerians today are not only seeking products, they are seeking brands that reflect their values of self-expression, confidence, and connection. Closer Is Better was designed to meet that need by creating a community where they can show up as their authentic selves without fear or judgment. 

    With the support of our influencers who resonate with their daily realities, we are building a community where young people feel seen, supported, and inspired to connect. Confidence attracts, connection sustains, and ultimately, being closer in every meaningful way is what strengthens relationships.”

    The campaign leverages a diverse group of influencers and creators who resonate with Nigeria’s youth culture, each bringing a unique voice and perspective to what it means to get closer and express oneself freely. 

    The influencers’ lineup includes: Crispdal, Purple Speedy, Ocean Vibes(Couple shared account), Shank comics, Asherkine, DJ Abba, Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, Folagade Banks, Gilmore, Taaooma, Tobe szn, Hauwa, Sheggz, Bella, Najib Yusuf Saleh, Victoria Uvo, Chimezie Imo, Eric Okafor, Simi Sanya, Femi Dapson, Real Judy, Osevagimedee, Bigdave gram, Julie Adaugo, Mayor Frosh, Emeneks, Harmoihie, Nana, Feeiziey, Rukkaya, Seunayo, Iremide Adeoye, Goodgirl LA, Kem Apia and Pamela. 

    They will share relatable stories, fun content, and authentic moments that show closeness does not have to be intimidating. Using real-life examples, and playful challenges, they will offer tips on expressing confidence and connecting without second-guessing.

    With Closeup as their ally, young Nigerians can confidently navigate their relationships, friendships, and everyday interactions because closer is always better.

  • Many injuried as police destroy insurgents’ camp in five-hour gun duel

    Many injuried as police destroy insurgents’ camp in five-hour gun duel

    Police in Anambra State said they have destroyed one of the militia camps belonging to the Eastern Security Network of the Indigenous People of Biafra (ESN/IPOB) in Aguluezechukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of the state.

    Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Thursday said the feat was achieved during a raid of the area jointly carried out by the Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and State Vigilante.

    He said several of the insurgents escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds during exchange fire which lasted over five hours.

    He listed items recovered from the camp to include white Lexus 470 SUV and several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

    According to him: “Anambra Police – led Joint Security Force, Aguata, comprising troops from the 302 Artillery Regiment (GS), 14 Field Engineer Regiment, Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Anambra State Vigilante (Agunechemba) in the early hours of 2nd September 2025 carried out a coordinated joint operation at an ESN/IPOB militia camp located in Aguluezechukwu, Aguata Local Government Area.

    Read Also: Police arrest 5,936 crime suspects, recover 360 firearms in crackdown

    “During the operation, which lasted over five hours, the militia members were successfully dislodged, their camp destroyed, while several of them escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds. 

    “A white Lexus 470 SUV and several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were also recovered from the scene.

    “The area has since been stabilized and remains calm as monitoring continues to ensure the safety and security of residents, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.

    “The Anambra State Police Command reassures Ndi Anambra of its unwavering commitment to sustaining the fight against criminality and restoring peace across the State.”

  • Nine suspected cultists arrested in Edo

    Nine suspected cultists arrested in Edo

    Operatives of the Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, have arrested seven suspected cultists at Iguoshodin N’ Ikpemaba, Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

    Cache of firearms recovered included two baretta pistols, two cut-to-size double-barrel guns and live AK-47 ammunition.

    Coordinator of the Squad, Idemudia Noah, said the operation was conducted in collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders after credible intelligence was received from residents.

    Idemudia said the operation was in response to distress calls that cult groups were terrorizing residents. 

    He said the arms and ammunition were recovered from a building allegedly belonging to the Okaighele of Omi, Mr. Osazuwa Igbineweka.

    According to him, “Prior to this operation, we had received multiple reports that cult members were causing serious unrest in Omi. Our raid not only led to their arrest but also exposed the dangerous weapons they used to perpetrate crime,” Noah added.

    Read Also: Why we sacked consultant, by Edo SUBEB chairman

    The Coordinator further revealed that preliminary investigations point to the suspects being members of the Eiye confraternity, a cult group notorious for violent clashes and criminal activities across several Edo communities.

    “From intelligence gathered and from the relief expressed by residents, it is clear that some of those arrested belong to the Eiye cult group. Their arrest has restored confidence among the people who are pleased to see decisive action being taken.

    “Among the weapons recovered were Baretta pistols, cut-to-size double-barrel shotguns, and AK-47 ammunition, all of which point to the extent of the threat posed by these individuals,” he explained.

    He reaffirmed commitment of the team to flush out cultism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

  • Police arrest 5,936 crime suspects, recover 360 firearms in crackdown

    Police arrest 5,936 crime suspects, recover 360 firearms in crackdown

    The Nigeria Police have arrested 5,936 criminal suspects and recovered 360 prohibited firearms and 5,953 rounds of ammunition during nationwide crackdown.

     Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police Muyiwa Adejobi, said this during a  bpress conference yesterday at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) Base in Guzape, Abuja.

     He said the arrests were made last month by operatives of the IRT and other special units as part of efforts to combat gunrunning and proliferation of illegal arms. According to Adejobi, those arrested include 715 armed robbery suspects, 306 ‘kidnappers’, 533 homicide suspects, 149 for unlawful possession of firearms, 371 for sexual-related offences, 590 suspected cultists, and 3,272 others for various crimes.

    Read Also: NASENI launches InnovateNaija Nigeria’s biggest innovation challenge to empower youths

    He cited notable cases, including the arrest of one Jane Anodua in Rivers State for her alleged role in child trafficking reported by the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs.

    Her arrest, he said, led to the rescue of four children, two of whom had been trafficked from Plateau to Imo State.

    Another breakthrough came with the July 13 arrest of a suspected gunrunner, Tanfa Binbol, who was allegedly operating between Taraba and Plateau States. A search of his premises reportedly yielded three AK-47 rifles, five pistols, and a pump-action rifle.Similarly, on July 27, police operatives arrested one Jerauji Ibrahim in Adamawa State and recovered two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, and 19 rounds of live ammunition. Further operations also led to the recovery of additional rifles, pistols, and ammunition from criminal hideouts.

    Adejobi said the operations demonstrated the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to save lives and properties

    He said: “The Nigeria Police Force remains firmly committed to ensuring Nigerians can go about their daily activities in peace and without fear of the unknown”.

  • Cybercrimes: Five Thai nationals sentenced

    Cybercrimes: Five Thai nationals sentenced

    The Federal High Court, Abuja has convicted five Thais over high-level cybercrime and sentenced them to three years imprisonment with an option of N1 million fine each.

    The trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, while delivering judgment on the plea bargain reached between the convicts and the Federal Government, ordered the deportation of the convicts upon completion of the prison term or payment of the fine.

    The convicts are among 108 foreigners being prosecuted by the Inspector-General of Police over cybercrime, money laundering, and actions deemed a threat to Nigeria’s national security.

    The five convicts are Panupong Wanasak, Aatairat See Ni, Laongdao Saeguang, Achalar Saeyang and Galin Suphaaut, all represented in court by Christiana Sylvester.

    The convicts, who are from Thailand, were re-arraigned on a three-count charge of cybercrime and illegally staying in the country without valid papers.

    One of the countsread: ”You Panupong Wanasak, Aatairat See Ni, Laongdao Saeguang, Achalar Saeyang and Galin Suphaaut in last September, entered Nigeria with a business permit of 30 days.

    “You remained in the country on the expiration of that permit and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 57 of the Immigration Act 2015 and punishable under the same act.”

    They pleaded guilty when the charge was read to them through a Thai interpreter.

    The Prosecutor, F.G. Gabriel. prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly in view of their guilty plea.

    He told the court that parties had entered into a plea bargain and prayed the court to adopt same as its judgment against the defendants.

    Delivering judgment, Justice Nwite convicted the defendants as charged and said that in view of the plea bargain, he was sentencing them to one year in prison on each of the three counts with an option of N1 million fine.

    Read Also: NASENI launches InnovateNaija Nigeria’s biggest innovation challenge to empower youths

    The judge also held that the convicts were to be deported to their countries upon serving their prison term or paying the fine and charged the Nigeria Immigration Service to ensure a seamless deportation.

    He ruled that the gadgets and electronics devices used by the convicts to perpetrate the crime shall be forfeited to the federal government.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the convicts were arraigned last year.

    They initially pleaded not guilty and were remanded in the correctional centre pending the fulfilment of their bail conditions.

    The Police alleged that they operated out of Plot 1906, Cadastral Zone 807, Katampe District, Abuja, where they were running a fraudulent and unregistered gaming platform.

    They were accused of aiding abetting and conspiring among themselves to commit an offence, to wit: cybercrime, contrary to and punishable under Section 27 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended 2024).

    They were also charged with unlawful access to a computer network and input of inauthentic data, punishable under Section 13 of the Cybercrimes Act.

  • 300 persons displaced by gunmen in Plateau local government council

    300 persons displaced by gunmen in Plateau local government council

    •30 houses razed

    No fewer than 300 persons were displaced  and 30 houses razed in the past few days by suspected herders in 10 communities of Quaanpan Local Government Area of Plateau State.

    Director of Press and Publicity to the Chairman, Qua’an-Pan Local Government, Danaan Cletus Sylvanus, confirmed the incident to reporters in Jos.

    He said the affected communities include Nteng, Doop, Zhep Morop, Gyeergu, Kelaghan, Loon, Kwakii, and Gorom in Doemak District.

    The attacks occurred late last month, as residents were preparing to harvest their crops.

    The gunmen also destroyed farm barns, he added.

    Also, in a statement, Sylvanus said the Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area, Christopher Manship, lamented the attacks and urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and development associations to join him to provide solution to the problem.

    He said at a security meeting, the chairman noted that security agencies had been mobilised to the affected areas to ensure peace.

    Read Also: INEC chair tasks NIMC on unified citizenship database for Nigeria

    He said the state Commissioner of Culture, Tourism, and Hospitality, Cornelius Doeyok, commended Manship, for convening a meeting.

     Acting President of Qua’an-Pan Traditional Council, Safiyanu Allahnanan, emphasised that traditional rulers have a crucial role to play in restoring peace to communities affected by the attacks.

    The chairman also visited the communities affected by the attacks, and urged security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive, showing his commitment to the welfare and safety of residents.

    According to him, this demonstrates his administration’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of its citizens and restoring peace in the area.

    While addressing the non-conventional security agencies at Nteng, the chairman called on them to be united and support the security agencies as they work to restore peace to the communities.

    The chairman assured the displaced persons that his administration is working assiduously to ensure their safe return to their homes, and that everything possible is being done to restore peace and normalcy to the affected communities.

  • 29 killed in Niger boat accident

    29 killed in Niger boat accident

    •50 passengers rescued

    Twenty-Nine people died in a boat assident in Malale area of Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

    Over 50 people were rescued in the incident, which occurred on Tuesday morning.

    The passengers, were heading to Dugga for a condolence visit, was said to have taken off from a community called Tugan Sule in Shagunu ward with over 90 people on board, including women and children. 

    Read Also: Nigerian Baptist Convention unveils Arise Congress 2.0 to empower youths, leaders

    The Director-General, Niger state Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Abdullahi Baba Arah, who confirmed the incident, attributed it to overloading and collision with a tree stump.

    “As at this time of filling, 29 dead bodies have been recovered, with 50 persons rescued alive while two people are still missing. Search and rescue operations are still on going for possible recovery of missing persons,” he said.

    The deceased have been buried.

  • ‘Obtaining EIA approval a must for projects development in Lagos’

    ‘Obtaining EIA approval a must for projects development in Lagos’

    Lagos State Government yesterday restated that obtaining an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval is a must for all projects developments across the state.

    The Special Adviser on Environment,  Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, made this known during a Stakeholders’ Engagement Workshop Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Practitioners in Real Estate Sector and Projects Developers in Lagos State, held in Ikeja.

    According to him, all developers/builders must subject their projects to EIA process before their commencement.

    He said estate development building projects include five-floors building and above, eight apartments units and above, shopping malls, filling stations, industrial facilities, sand mining projects, dredging, land reclamation, among others.

    He said the state government would not hesitate to enforce compliance in the overriding interest of ensuring public safety and sustainable development when necessary.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu seeks NASS backing to fast-track State Police

    He said EIA was a critical environmental management tool that must be embraced by private and public sectors (stakeholders in real estate sector) in order to achieve sustainable development.

    He noted that the state had remained the most preferred destination for investors/ businesses in Nigeria, adding that this was attributed to the growing population, which provided a huge market for goods and services; modern infrastructure as well as sound policies, which had continued to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

    The Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr.Tajudeen Gaji, said the workshop was not only apt, but also timely, coming at a time all hands must be on deck to ensure sustainable development in the state.

    “EIA is a critical safeguard instrument that has been adopted across the globe as a tool for protecting the environment and public health.

    ‘’It has as its objective, early identification of likely impacts both adverse and beneficial that can result from a proposed project and proffering appropriate measures to either eliminate, reduce or mitigate the adverse impacts,” he said.

    The Director, Environmental Assessment Department, Dr. Olasunkanmi Sojinu, said EIA process was backed by the EIA Act CAP E12 LFN 2004 and the Lagos State Environmental Management and protection Law 2017, which made it mandatory for major developments to subject such to the EIA process and obtain appropriate approval before commencement.

  • Motorists, commuters laud Ogun govt on new Abeokuta-Sango-Ota-Lagos Road

    Motorists, commuters laud Ogun govt on new Abeokuta-Sango-Ota-Lagos Road

    As construction work continues on Abeokuta-Ifo-Sango-Ota-Lagos Expressway, motorists and commuters have expressed satisfaction about the pace and quality of work done so far on the ever-busy road.

    It will be recalled that Governor Dapo Abiodun on August 23 last year launched the reconstruction of the expressway with an 18-month completion timeline.

    Five gangs are working simultaneously at Olomore, Midgad/Metroxide, Papanlanto Junction, Owode, and the Toll Gate axis, where earthwork, stone base and drainage have been completed, while asphalt is being laid.

    The failed portions at Brewery, Obada and Itori Junction up to Lafarge Cement Factory, Ewekoro, have been repaired and opened for motorists.

    The Olu of Itori, Oba Abdul Fatai Akorede Akamo, fielding questions from reporters, noted that the road had been in deplorable condition for a long time due to abandonment by both the federal and previous state governments.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu makes key appointments in Kano, Zaria Federal universities of education

    He said: “This road has been abandoned for so many years. I thank God that Governor Dapo Abiodun took the bull by the horns and is committed to doing Lagos-Ota-Abeokuta Road.

    “Though it is a federal road, Governor Abiodun said he would complete the road, and he has started it. Our governor is a man of his word, and his word is his bond.

    “I have never witnessed such a governor in the state since my enthronement who says something and achieves it. We will tell our stories by ourselves; the giant stride of the governor on this road is still unbelievable.

    “Governor Abiodun is a man of the people; he feels the people’s pain, and the governor is doing fine because he has someone at his back. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been our governor’s pillar of support.

    “What he met on the ground when he became the governor was so sad, but today, we thank God that God has revealed Himself.”

    A transporter, Opeyemi Akindele, who plies the Abeokuta-Papalanto route, commended the contractor handling the project for a job well done, noting that with the construction, the rate of accidents has reduced, while traffic bottlenecks are now a thing of the past.

    Also speaking on the current state of the road, a resident of Papalanto, Ololade Anjolaoluwa, said: “The road was very bad before now; the traffic around here was huge in the past, but now, we thank God that the administration of Governor Abiodun has come to our aid.”

  • Adebowale named Eminent Peace Ambassador

    Adebowale named Eminent Peace Ambassador

    Honourable Adesote Adebowale has been recognised as an Eminent Peace Ambassador by the International Association of World Peace Advocates.

    The honour, which was recently conferred on him, is in recognition of his contributions to peace advocacy, youth empowerment, and community development.

    Adebowale, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Sotab Continental Ltd, has in recent years combined corporate leadership with humanitarian service. His company operates in the real estate and energy sectors, while he has also been active in initiatives aimed at empowering young people and promoting national unity.

    Read Also: Firm signs Ijebu Rewa as brand ambassador

    The new appointment adds to a growing list of recognitions for Adebowale. He has previously been honoured by youth organisations and cultural institutions for his community work and was also awarded an honorary doctorate in Project Management and Leadership.

    Speaking on his new role, Adebowale described the recognition as a call to do more. “This is not just about titles, but about service and responsibility. My commitment remains to foster peace, create opportunities, and contribute to nation-building,” he said.

    The International Association of World Peace Advocates said Adebowale’s appointment was in line with its mission of recognising individuals who have demonstrated leadership and dedication to the promotion of peace globally.