The Nation Newspaper

Category: News Update

  • Netizens react as Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo gets tattoo

    Netizens react as Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo gets tattoo

    Relationship coach and lead pastor of David Christian Centre (DCC), Kingsley Okonkwo, has sparked a debate on social media after revealing a new tattoo on his arm. 

    The tattoo, which he shared on his Instagram page, with the caption ‘3:16’, has left many of his followers surprised and divided. 

    While some supporters argue that faith is about inner conviction, not outward symbols, others question whether tattoos align with the moral image expected of a pastor, citing Leviticus 19:28, which warns against marking the skin.

    @iamqneth noted: “The Bible says we should not make a mark on our skin.well I know that the Bible hasn’t changed and God’s word hasn’t change too so all I can say is hmmmmm” 

    @ladyrosabel commented: “For those of us that have something to say but decided not to say it, may the peace of the Lord be with us amen”. @iamkingdinero1 shared: “Just know God personally, nó let anyone introduce their own God to you , find your God , know am for yourself’

    @sailorojay stated: “It’s baffles me like does this pastor not know it’s a sin to tattoo his skin?? Like I have nothing for tattoos but as a pastor you should be the one person leading your members in the right part with what the Bible teaches. It’s like pastors of these days only use verses in the Bible that favors them and throws the rest out.” @papcy_valery shared: “Leviticus 19:28 Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.”

    Okonkwo, known for his teachings on marriage and relationships, has not publicly addressed the controversy.

  • Governors absent as NWDC holds inaugural summit in Kaduna

    Governors absent as NWDC holds inaugural summit in Kaduna

    The North West Development Commission (NWDC) on Saturday convened its first stakeholders’ development summit at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Conference Centre, Kaduna, bringing together federal actors, development partners and regional stakeholders to chart a coordinated development path for the zone.

    But none of the seven Governors from the North-West States attended the summit in person. 

    The Governors were represented variously by their deputies, Secretaries to State Governments and Commissioners.

    The absence drew concern from participants, including Dr. Hakeem Baba Ahmed, Protem Chairman of the Northern Reconciliation Group, who described the development as disappointing given the significance of the summit to the region’s future.

    He said it was regrettable that no governor from the zone deemed it necessary to attend personally, noting that only representatives were present despite the strategic importance of the meeting.

    According to him, the summit was designed to advance a coordinated, inclusive and sustainable development agenda for the North-West through legislative leadership, state political commitment, stakeholder collaboration and alignment of development interventions.

    Baba Ahmed explained that the objectives included providing a high-level platform for dialogue among federal and state actors, development partners and other critical stakeholders on priority issues affecting the region.

    He added that the forum was also intended to strengthen coordination between the National Assembly, state governments, the NWDC and relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in planning and implementing development initiatives.

    The summit, he said, was aimed at supporting the operational readiness of the NWDC and enhancing the effective delivery of its mandate through shared commitments and improved coordination structures.

    He noted that discussions at the forum focused on integrated and cross-sectoral approaches to tackling key challenges such as infrastructure deficit, insecurity, agriculture, climate resilience, human capital development and economic inclusion.

    Encouraging private sector participation and development partner support in financing sustainable development projects, he added, was also a major focus of the summit.

    Baba Ahmed further stated that the meeting was expected to produce a practical, action-oriented communiqué to guide policy alignment, legislative backing and coordinated implementation for sustainable outcomes in the region.

    Describing Kaduna as the “heart of the North,” he said it was concerning that, despite hosting such a crucial meeting on North-West development, none of the governors from the zone attended in person.

    “As stakeholders, we are here to offer our support out of love for the region.

    “Leadership is a responsibility given to deliver results. When you do well, the people will appreciate you, but when you fail, you will also be held accountable,” he said.

    He, however, commended participants who attended physically and contributed meaningfully to the deliberations.

  • Funke Akindele slams critics over movie promotion ‘dancing’ strategy

    Funke Akindele slams critics over movie promotion ‘dancing’ strategy

    Filmmaker Funke Akindele has addressed movie promotion strategies in Nigeria, following comments by Kunle Afolayan. 

    Afolayan had expressed frustration over the need to dance to promote films, stating he found the process draining.

    He said: “It is draining. I want to make a film if you guarantee me that I don’t have to dance to sell that film.”

    Afolayan also criticised the growing obsession with box office figures, stating that massive cinema numbers mean little if creators do not benefit financially.

    “There’s no competition. I don’t want two billion in cinema, or even one billion, if I won’t make ten million from it,” Afolayan stated.

    In an Instagram post, Akindele emphasised opportunities are plentiful for everyone, stating that those struggling should focus on their own path.

    Akindele on Instagram story, wrote: “I’m not the one hindering your progress. Ka rin ka po, yiye nin ye ni. If you can’t beat them or join them, create your
    own path. No allow jealousy burn you. The sky is so big for everybody to fly. Eyin Werey jojo!!! And dem never see anything ooooo…

    “Go ahead and create alternative promotion or marketing strategie for promoting your business, or hire a company to handle it. You can do it! The opportunities are endless, and everyone has their own path. I’m focused on mine, and I have faith in God’s plan for me. Gbam!!!!!!”

  • Nwifuru sacks all political appointees, monarchs, community leaders in Ebonyi community

    Nwifuru sacks all political appointees, monarchs, community leaders in Ebonyi community

    Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru has dissolved the entire political and traditional leadership structure of Amasiri Community, Afikpo local government area 

    This followed a violent attack on Okporojo Village,  Oso Edda Community in Edda Local Government Area on Thursday during which four persons were reportedly beheaded.

    The attack has been blamed on the people of Amasiri who the Okporojo people have been having boundary dispute.

    Houses and properties worth millions were also destroyed in the area.

    The Governor announced the sweeping sanctions on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo village where he addressed residents, community leaders, security agencies and government officials.

    Visibly saddened by the incident, Nwifuru described the attack as “most unfortunate” and said he never expected such a level of brutality to occur in the state. 

    He assured the affected community that the state government would decisively deal with those responsible, stressing that the lives lost would not be in vain.

    “I am very pained by this development. As a careful leader, when you are angry, you speak less. But I want to assure you that the government of Ebonyi State will show the perpetrators what it truly means to be a government,” the Governor said.

    He urged residents to remain calm and embrace peace, warning that retaliatory violence would only worsen the situation. 

    According to him, government actions would be firm but guided by the need to prevent further escalation of the crisis.

    Nwifuru pointed out the conflict had lingered for years despite several reconciliation efforts, including boundary agreements between the affected communities, lamenting that such agreements were not respected. 

    He noted that his visit was a “strong signal” that the state would no longer tolerate lawlessness or disregard for the rule of law.

    While commending security agencies for their swift response, the governor disclosed that security operatives had trekked long distances to track the perpetrators and had assured him of the safety of lives and property in the area. 

    He pledged the full support of the state government to security agencies to restore lasting peace.

    Turning to the role of Amasiri Community in the crisis, Nwifuru issued a stern warning, stating that violence would never lead to a meaningful resolution. 

    He cautioned that the situation was fast approaching “a point of no return” if provocations continued.

    He announced the immediate dissolution of the Amasiri Town Development Union and its executive members.

    He also ordered the withdrawal of the traditional ruler’s certificate and the removal of all village heads in Amasiri autonomous community.

    He also ordered the sack of all political appointees from Amasiri Community, from members of management committees up to commissioners serving in his administration.

    “For the time being, all these structures are dissolved. We will do more, and we will show everyone why we are a government,” Nwifuru declared.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring permanent peace in Edda LGA and promised that by next year, the community would witness tangible improvements resulting from government intervention.

  • PDP State chairmen back Turaki-led faction

    PDP State chairmen back Turaki-led faction

    The Forum of State Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee(NWC) of the party elected at the National convention in November.

    In a statement in Abuja, the Forum drawn from 30 States of the Federation, said despite the judgement of the Federal High Court in Ibadan, the Turaki led Executive remains the legal leadership of the party, pointing out that the judgement was only one of several distractions the party is facing and will soon overcome.

    The statement was signed by the 

    Chairman of Forum of PDP State Chairmen &

    Chairman, PDP in  Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi and the Secretary of the Forum and Chairman of Kaduna State Chairman, Chief Edward Masha

    The statement reads: “The Forum of State Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), comprising the Chairmen of the Party in 30 States of the Federation, has carefully reviewed the judgment delivered today by the Federal High Court, Ibadan, as well as the official position of our great Party as articulated by the National Chairman, His Excellency, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN.

    “We wish to unequivocally express our total solidarity and unflinching support for the National Chairman and the entire National Working Committee (NWC) as constituted by the Ibadan National Convention.

    “The Forum notes with concern that the judgment in question declined the relief of mandamus sought by the Party, while proceeding to grant reliefs that were neither prayed for nor canvassed by any of the parties before the court. 

    “We further note that the said judgment stands in material conflict with subsisting judgments and orders of courts of coordinate jurisdiction on the same subject matter.

    “It is therefore reassuring that the Party has already exercised its constitutional right of appeal and filed the appropriate motions for stay of execution, in line with established legal principles and democratic norms.

    “We align fully with the position of the National Working Committee under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) that this judgment represents only one step in an ongoing judicial process, especially as the substantive issues are already before the Court of Appeal for determination.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the Forum of PDP State Chairmen affirms that the National Working Committee produced by the Ibadan Convention remains the lawful, recognised, and operational leadership of our Party, and continues to enjoy the confidence and loyalty of PDP structures across the 30 states of the Federation.

    “We urge all party members, supporters, and stakeholders nationwide to remain calm, focused, and united. There is no vacuum in the leadership of our Party, and there is absolutely no cause for panic.

    “The PDP has weathered difficult moments in the past and has always emerged stronger. This moment is no exception. What we are witnessing is merely one of the judicial turns in our democratic journey — not the destination itself.

    “The Forum remains fully committed to the REBIRTH and rebuilding of the Peoples Democratic Party, and we reaffirm our collective resolve to strengthen party unity, deepen internal democracy, and reposition the PDP as the credible alternative capable of rescuing Nigeria.

    “As we have always known, facts may be distorted, but truth is constant- and it will surely prevail. We stand firmly with the National Chairman, the National Working Committee, and the millions of Nigerians who continue to believe in the ideals of our great Party”.

  • Home Alone actress Catherine O’Hara dies at 71

    Home Alone actress Catherine O’Hara dies at 71

    Canadian-born Hollywood star, Catherine O’Hara has died at 71.  

    O’Hara, best known for her iconic roles in Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, passed away at her Brentwood home in Los Angeles on Friday, her agency, Creative Artists Agency, confirmed.

    “A true comic genius, a true artist, and a wonderful human being.” —Martin Scorsese “The funniest person I’d ever had the pleasure of watching on screen.” —Seth Rogen. “One of the comic giants of our age.” —Christopher Guest.

    “Catherine O’Hara was all of those things. She was also a dear friend and client. In the words of her agent Toni Howard, “it was pure joy to represent Catherine for 35 years!”

    “From her start on SCTV to her performances in films such as Home Alone and Beetlejuice, to her Emmy-winning role on Schitt’s Creek and her recent appearances on The Studio, she brought her trademark wit, energy and exceptional comedic talent to everything she did. She will be deeply missed,” the statement reads.

    O’Hara’s impressive career spanned over five decades, with notable performances in films like Beetlejuice, Best in Show, and A Mighty Wind. 

    Her portrayal of Moira Rose in the Emmy-winning comedy series Schitt’s Creek earned her widespread critical acclaim and a new generation of fans.

    The cause of death was not disclosed as tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends, including Martin Scorsese, Seth Rogen, and Christopher Guest, praising her exceptional comedic talent and wit.

    O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke, leaving behind a lasting legacy in comedy and popular culture.

  • Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    The Presidency said Nigeria is on a “healing journey” and firmly on course to build a $1 trillion economy by 2030 as it intensifies efforts to deepen economic and financial inclusion and reposition the country as Africa’s leading hub for a borderless digital economy.

    The Technical Adviser to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Office of the Vice President, Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, stated this at the weekend in Abuja during a media parley where organisers unveiled details of the 2026 RegTech Africa Conference and Expo.

    Zauro said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu set a clear economic target from his first day in office, anchored on reforms aimed at restoring confidence, expanding inclusion and attracting investment.

    “From day one, Mr President set a target of deepening Nigeria’s economic and financial sector to achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2030. To get there, we must build trust, infrastructure and inclusion, supported by policies that promote partnership and collaboration. That is the essence of a borderless economy,” he said.

    Nigeria is set to host the continental conference from May 20 to 22, 2026, under the patronage of the Office of the Vice President. 

    The event with the theme “Building trust, infrastructure, inclusion and policy for a borderless economy,” is being organised in partnership with the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion and in collaboration with the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa.

    Zauro acknowledged that recent policy changes have been difficult for citizens but insisted they are necessary to restore long-term economic health.

    “It takes a bold decision for a father who knows his child is sick to take him to the hospital, allow him to go through surgery and come out hale and hearty. Nigeria has gone through painful reforms, but today we are on a healing journey,” he said.

    According to him, key economic indicators are beginning to improve as investor confidence gradually returns. 

    “The numbers are changing. Investors are coming, and Nigeria is back on its trajectory to success. Our leadership position in Africa is being reinforced,” he added.

    He said the administration is deliberately leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area to strengthen Nigeria’s regional influence, noting that the President and Vice President have been engaging global partners to attract collaboration and investment.

    On financial inclusion, Zauro said the push is driven by a presidential directive and anchored on the ASO Accord on Economic and Financial Inclusion, which underscores commitment, partnership and collaboration across government.

    He added that the inclusion agenda has been elevated to the National Economic Council to ensure full buy-in by states. 

    “It is not enough to make policy at the centre; it must reach the sub-nationals so that every Nigerian is part of it. Our principle remains that no one should be left behind,” he said.

    Organisers of the conference said multi-stakeholder engagement is critical to resolving persistent challenges facing citizens and businesses, particularly in rural and underserved communities. 

    They noted that access to markets and efficient payment systems could significantly boost productivity and economic output.

    “If people have access to markets and can receive payments seamlessly, even from remote communities, productivity will increase,” they said, stressing that inclusive conversations and practical solutions are key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.

  • Togolese escapes human trafficking ring

    Togolese escapes human trafficking ring

    A Togolese, Mr Meale Yaoili, has escaped from the custody of a suspected human trafficking syndicate operating in Ondo State, prompting police action that led to the arrest of six suspects and the rescue of multiple victims.

    Yaoili reported the incident to operatives of the Yaba Police Station of the Ondo Police Command after fleeing from his captors.

    The victim said he was lured from the Republic of Togo to Nigeria under the pretext of securing employment in Canada.

    According to him, he had known one Tchodia Potolaw Fidel, now at large, since 2019. 

    He alleged that Fidel allegedly claimed he was based in Canada and convinced him to travel to Nigeria, telling him there was no Canadian embassy in Togo.

    Upon arrival, Yaoili alleged that his personal belongings were seized and he was held against his will after paying 800,000 CFA francs for the promised job opportunity.

    Confirming the incident in a statement on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Jimoh Abayomi, said the command immediately launched an operation following the complaint.

    He said swift and coordinated action led to the arrest of six suspects: Cleude Grao, Samuel Dsiwa, Michael Amissa, Olayiwola Kazeem, Akinubi Adebayo and Oluwole Vincent.

    Abayomi explained that Vincent is the landlord of the premises where the illegal operation was conducted. 

    He added that three victims were rescued during the raid.

    In a related development, the police also uncovered another suspected trafficking ring after a case initially reported as banditry was lodged on January 23, 2026, at the Oba-Ile Divisional Headquarters by the Chief of Oba-Ile.

    The matter was later transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

    Preliminary findings, according to the PPRO, revealed that the suspects were not bandits but illegal immigrants from the Republic of Chad occupying a duplex apartment around the OSOPADEC area of Akure.

    He said investigators identified the principal suspect as Umaru Baba, who is allegedly involved in trans-border crimes, including recruitment, human trafficking and modern-day slavery.

    Abayomi explained that Baba reportedly posed as a representative of an online marketing company to lure migrants with promises of commission-based employment before harbouring them illegally.

    He said eleven men and one woman were recruited and transported into Nigeria unlawfully.

    The victims were identified as Husein Abdullahi (26), Hassan Yaya (23), Umaru Samida (19), Umaru Buba (24), Mohammed Almat (24) and Saleh Abduraman (23), 

    Others are: Musa Mohammed (22), Mohammed Watala (20), Ali Mohammad (26), Hassan Hussein (24), and Yusuf Yakubu (23).

    He noted that all are Chadian nationals and are being treated as victims of trafficking rather than suspects.

    Abayomi added that efforts to inspect the premises were initially hampered by the absence of the key holder.

    He said the female landlord, said to be residing in Ibadan, is being traced for questioning over alleged negligence.

    “The suspects in both cases are currently in custody and have reportedly provided useful statements, while investigations continue to apprehend other fleeing accomplices.

    “The rescued victims will be handed over to their respective embassies for diplomatic action and repatriation,” Abayomi said.

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Lawal Adebowale, warned landlords and property owners to conduct proper background checks on prospective tenants, stressing that negligence could attract legal consequences.

    He also commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for ongoing reforms and technological innovations that have improved operational efficiency in the state.

    Adebowale reassured residents of the command’s commitment to combating human trafficking and other trans-border crimes, urging members of the public to provide credible information to support policing efforts.

  • Troops kill top ISWAP commander Julaibib, four others in fierce battle

    Troops kill top ISWAP commander Julaibib, four others in fierce battle

    Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have killed a top Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) top commander, known as JULAIBIB, during a fierce battle around Kimba in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.

    The ISWAP commander, said to be operating within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle, was killed on Friday, January 30, following an intelligence-driven operation.

    In a statement on Saturday, the Media Officer of Operation Hadi Kai, Lieutenant General Sani Uba, said other high-value terrorist targets were also neutralised while troops disrupted insurgent activities and foiled criminal operations.

    “Further intelligence revealed that the elimination of the terrorist leader has thrown ISWAP elements in the area into disarray, with several fighters reportedly neutralised during the operation. This impressive development represents a major blow to the command and control structure of ISWAP in the region,” Uba said.

    He said the troops, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force, neutralised three terrorists during a well-coordinated ambush between the Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities in the state, following credible intelligence on insurgent movements in the area.

    Read Also: DHQ: Troops destroy 53 illegal refineries, arrest 81 oil thieves in January

    According to Uba: “Troops tactically laid an ambush along the identified route and engaged the terrorists with effective firepower, resulting in the neutralisation of three insurgents, while others fled with gunshot injuries. 

    “Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the scene. The operation forms part of sustained efforts to deny terrorists freedom of movement and degrade their operational capabilities across the Theatre.”

    The Media Officer said that prior to the killing of the three terrorists, on January 29, troops deployed in an ambush position at Tsokorok in Gwoza Local Government Area came in contact with Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. 

    According to him, the ambush team engaged the terrorists, forcing them to withdraw, and neutralizing one terrorist, with no casualties recorded on the side of the troops. 

    “Two motorcycles were recovered from the scene,” he said. 

    Uba said the general security situation across the theatre remains stable, while “Operation Hadi Kai remains resolute in its commitment to protect lives and property, dismantle terrorist networks, and work with local communities and security critical stakeholders to restore lasting peace and economic stability across the North-East region.”

  • FG hands over Ikere hydropower plant to concessionaire

    FG hands over Ikere hydropower plant to concessionaire

    The Federal Government through the Ministry of Power, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has handed over the 6-Megawatt Ikere George Hydropower Plant in Oyo State to a concessionaire, Quaint Power and Infrastructure Nigeria Limited.

    The government said the concession of the hydropower plant would generate over 25,000 direct and indirect jobs as well as boost the power supply in Oyo and neighbouring states.

    The official handover ceremony took place on Friday at Ikere Community in Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State, under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

    The Ikere Gorge Dam was conceived under Nigeria’s first elected president, Shehu Shagari, in the 1980s, as a multi-purpose project to aid power generation, water supply, irrigation and fishing. 

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, congratulated the people of Southwest particularly the Oke-Ogun communities, on what he described as a major breakthrough in power generation.

    He said the development is in line with the policies of President Bola Tinubu led administration to revitalize the energy sector as well creating employment opportunities for the teeming youths in the country.

    Adelabu, who was joined at the occasion by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, said the project would stimulate electricity market development as well enhancing the economic growth of the host community.

    The Minister added that Ikere George dam project is a pointer to the resolve and the commitment of the Federal government to advance the energy sector of the economy.

    Adelabu commended Quaint Power and Infrastructure Nigeria Limited for its courage and confidence in Nigeria’s power sector, noting that the Ikere Hydropower Plant is a strategic intervention that highlighted the Federal government’s commitment to revitalising energy assets and stimulating electricity market development. 

    He added that the project would accelerate socio-economic growth in the host community and beyond.

     Utsev said construction of dams across the country remains a key mandate of his ministry, aimed at boosting economic development.

    Read Also: Govt, firm sign concession on 6MW Ikire Gorge hydropower project

    He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in complementing government efforts in infrastructure delivery, noting that the success recorded at the Ikere Hydropower Plant is a product of collaboration between the two ministries to strengthen Nigeria’s hydropower infrastructure.

    He listed other power projects executed under the administration of President Bola Tinubu to include a 4-Megawatt Hydropower Plant in Kogi State, and a 40-megawatt (MW) Kashimbila Multipurpose Dam in Taraba State, among others. 

    He noted that the success recorded at the Ikere George hydropower plant is a product of collaboration between the two ministries to strengthen the Nigeria’s hydropower infrastructure, urging the concessionaire to ensure efficient utilization of the Ikere facility.

    The Ikere Gorge project was executed under the regulatory guidance of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, the federal agency statutorily responsible for regulating all public-private partnerships. The ICRC is empowered to monitor compliance with the concession agreements throughout the life of the project.