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FG Declares Friday, September 5, Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Mawlid

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The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Mawlid, urging Nigerians to reflect on the Prophet’s virtues

FG Declares Friday, September 5, Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Mawlid

The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

While congratulating Muslims in Nigeria and across the world, Ajani urged the faithful to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion.

“The Minister of Interior wishes Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration. The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers us yet another opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and imbibe the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the statement read.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also called on Nigerians of all faiths to use the celebration to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country, while supporting government efforts to foster unity and development.

He appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding and security conscious, stressing that these values are vital for building a united and prosperous Nigeria.

Observed in the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi’ al-Awwal), Eid-ul-Mawlid commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. In Nigeria, the festival is marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and acts of charity, and is recognised as a national public holiday. Read More

Speaker Abbas Rallies Former CPC Bloc to Back Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election

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Ex-CPC stalwarts under Speaker Abbas’ leadership pledge full backing for Tinubu’s second term, unveiling plans for a nationwide grassroots movement

Speaker Abbas Rallies Former CPC Bloc to Back Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has emerged as a key figure in rallying former members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) within the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

Abbas, first elected into the House in 2011 on the CPC platform, said the bloc remains united and fully committed to the president’s second-term ambition, stressing that their loyalty is “unconditional.”

According to a statement by his media aide, Abdullahi Musa Krishi, the Speaker made the declaration during a meeting with President Tinubu and ex-CPC stalwarts at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday.

“Today marks the first time that former members of CPC have gathered in such large numbers to show support and appreciation for our president. On behalf of all CPC members, I assure you of our unconditional support. More than 90 per cent of those who played active roles in CPC are represented here,” Abbas stated.

He announced that the bloc would launch a new structure called Former CPC Members for Asiwaju across states, local governments, wards, and polling units to galvanise grassroots support for the president ahead of 2027.

Abbas also lauded Tinubu for his role in the political rise of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, the founding leader of the CPC, and for the “unprecedented honour” accorded to him following his passing.

The Speaker further stressed that CPC’s legacy remains strongly represented in Tinubu’s administration, pointing out that three serving governors, several ministers, and lawmakers of CPC extraction currently occupy key positions. Read More

Damagum, PDP Governors Launch Convention Plan to Reposition Party for 2027

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated its 119-member national convention committee, reaffirming readiness for its November 15–16 convention and vowing to reclaim Aso Rock in 2027 despite internal tensions

Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum, PDP National Chairman

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed its preparedness for its national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, expressing confidence in its ability to return to power in 2027.

Speaking at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum, inaugurated a 119-member National Convention Organizing Committee, assuring members and stakeholders of a smooth and successful exercise.

Party leaders dismissed fears of division or the possibility of a parallel convention, noting that such concerns—largely linked to loyalists of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike—would not derail preparations.

Senator Ahmed Makarfi, Secretary of the PDP Board of Trustees, emphasized that while efforts are ongoing to carry every stakeholder along, no convention requires 100 percent participation to succeed.

“Convention is not about excluding anybody; it’s also not a denial of the majority to have their way, because that’s what democracy is all about. If you have 100% involvement, it’s fine, but what matters is an overwhelming majority,” Makarfi said.

He added that zoning of party positions would follow established PDP traditions, stressing that no individual would be excluded from contesting:
“There’s no need for raising temperature, because there will be no exclusion; that has been the tradition since PDP was formed. We must always strive to build consensus.”

Also addressing the gathering, chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed, warned against misinterpreting consensus-building as weakness.

“We are not cowards and we are not afraid of any person. We can’t keep quiet and allow people to continue to take us to the slaughterhouse or take us for granted. Enough is enough. We agree to consensus and accommodation, but that is not cowardice. If anybody wants to form a faction of fools, we will allow him,” Mohammed declared in a veiled reference to speculations about a parallel convention.

Damagum, reviewing his two-year stewardship, said some “destructive voices” came from individuals who had benefited immensely from the party but later turned against it.

“Ironically, many of the destructive voices have come from individuals who have benefited immensely from the PDP; they sought to sow division and weaken our structures. Yet history will record that in a time of great difficulty, this National Working Committee, under my leadership, held the line and did a remarkable job,” he said.

The PDP chairman stressed that the forthcoming convention is critical to repositioning the party for electoral victory in 2027.

“This Main Committee for the National Convention is ably chaired by His Excellency Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, with Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State as Vice Chairman and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State as Secretary. Their competence and diversity reflect the unity of our PDP family,” he said.

Delivering the vote of thanks, PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja, reiterated the party’s optimism: “PDP belongs to the people and not to any individual; no matter what some people do, insha Allah, we are heading for Aso Rock in 2027.”

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Governors Ahmadu Fintiri, Seyi Makinde, and Bala Mohammed; representatives of the Enugu and Osun state governors; former Benue Governor, Samuel Ortom; members of the National Assembly; and members of the PDP National Working Committee and Board of Trustees. Read More

TikTok Star Peller Buys ₦350m Lekki Mansion, Plans October Move-In

Popular TikTok creator Peller has acquired a ₦350 million mansion in Lekki’s Chevron Drive, Lagos. The 20-year-old says the luxury home is a dream come true and plans to move in by October 2025

TikTok Star Peller Buys ₦350m Lekki Mansion, Plans October Move-In

Popular TikTok sensation, Peller, has splashed millions on a new mansion valued at ₦350 million in Lagos.

The 20-year-old digital creator revealed the news during a live chat with fellow influencer Sandra Benede, confirming that the luxury property is located on Chevron Drive in Lekki.

Celebrating the achievement on Instagram, Peller wrote:
“Look at me. God has been so good to me, and I’m so grateful to God and my fans all around the world. Congratulations to me. Finally got a place where I can be loud without landlord wahala.”

The content creator disclosed that he will officially move into the sprawling residence in October 2025. He expressed heartfelt appreciation to God and his loyal fan base, crediting their support as a major factor in his success.

On how he financed the home, Peller clarified that TikTok earnings were not solely responsible for the purchase. He revealed that he also enjoys significant financial backing from influential individuals who prefer to remain anonymous.

“It’s a big place, and I should be moving in around October. People shouldn’t think it’s just TikTok money. I get deals on the low. Sometimes, wealthy people send me money and ask me not to mention their names. But once the house is fully set, I’ll reveal them,” Peller explained during the live session.

Now ranked among Nigeria’s most prominent digital influencers, Peller described the mansion as the realization of a lifelong dream and promised to share more details once he settles into the home later this year. Read More

Sanwo-Olu Slashes Lagos Blue Line Fares by 50% to Mark Rail’s Second Anniversary

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced a 50% fare discount on Lagos’ Blue Line Rail Mass Transit from September 4, 2025, celebrating two years of safe, efficient service with over five million passengers

Sanwo-Olu Slashes Lagos Blue Line Fares by 50% to Mark Rail’s Second Anniversary

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced a 50 per cent discount on fares for the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Blue Line to mark its second anniversary. The special fare reduction takes effect on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

In a message shared via his official X handle on Wednesday, the governor highlighted the successes of the Blue Line since its launch in September 2023, noting that the rail system has transported more than five million passengers without recording a single accident.

“Dear Lagosians, two years ago, we took a bold step with the launch of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line. Today, as I look back on how far we have come, I feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

He added: “In these two years, the Blue Line has carried more than five million passengers safely, without a single accident. Trains now run every ten minutes, making over 90 trips each day. Journeys that once took much longer have become faster and easier.”

The governor described the milestone as a reflection of Lagos State’s commitment to building transport infrastructure that delivers value and eases commuting for residents. He said the project demonstrates the power of “collective trust and dedication.”

“These achievements show that when we work with dedication and purpose, we can build systems that truly serve the people,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Expressing gratitude to Lagosians for their support, the governor described the Blue Line as “a project that belongs to all of us.” He explained that the 50 per cent discount was designed to encourage more residents to experience the benefits of the modern rail system.

“To mark this second anniversary, I am pleased to announce a 50 per cent reduction in fares on the Blue Line for tomorrow, Thursday, September 4, 2025. If you have not yet experienced the Blue Line, I encourage you to take a ride and see what we have built together,” he declared.

Looking ahead, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering safer, faster, and more efficient transport systems across the state.

“Our journey is far from over. Step by step, we are creating the Lagos we all desire, building a city where moving around is easier, safer, and faster. Together, we are shaping the Lagos of our future,” he said.

The Blue Line, launched in September 2023, is the first of several rail projects under the state’s integrated mass transit strategy. It is aimed at easing congestion, improving mobility, and boosting productivity in Africa’s most populous city.

Court Nullifies 15-Year Mandatory Service Rule for Nigerian Armed Forces Officers

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The National Industrial Court in Abuja has struck down the 15-year compulsory service rule for Nigerian Armed Forces personnel, calling it unconstitutional and likening it to “modern-day slavery”

Court Nullifies 15-Year Mandatory Service Rule for Nigerian Armed Forces Officers

The National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja has declared unconstitutional the provision of the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) that forced Nigerian Armed Forces officers to serve a minimum of 15 years before resigning.

Delivering judgment in suit number NICN/ABJ/25/2025, Justice Emmanuel Subilim ruled that the provision was “oppressive, unconstitutional, and a gross violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution (as amended).”

The case was instituted by Flight Lieutenant J. A. Akerele, who challenged what he described as “systematic persecution and victimisation” after the Nigerian Air Force rejected his application to disengage from service.

Akerele, commissioned in 2013 during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, told the court that after submitting his resignation letter, the then Chief of Air Staff not only rejected his request but declared him absent without leave and ordered his arrest.

Through his counsel, human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, the officer narrated how his career had been repeatedly undermined—citing the abrupt termination of his U.S. flight training, prolonged rank stagnation, cancelled training opportunities, and disruptions that left him “traumatised and mentally distressed.”

Despite recommendations from his immediate commanders for the approval of his resignation after due interviews and counselling, the Air Force authorities declined, insisting on the HTACOS rule that mandated 15 years of service.

In his ruling, Justice Subilim condemned the policy, likening its enforcement to “modern-day slavery under the guise of national service.” He affirmed that members of the Armed Forces possess the statutory right to retire or resign voluntarily, stressing that Section 306 of the Constitution must be interpreted broadly to safeguard that right.

The court further dismissed the Air Force’s argument that Akerele’s resignation letter should be treated as a request for voluntary retirement rather than resignation. According to the judge, “substance outweighs form,” and Akerele’s resignation was valid and effective from the date it was received.

Justice Subilim also granted a perpetual injunction restraining the Chief of Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force from arresting, detaining, or compelling Akerele to remain in service.

Read More

Dangote Cement Extends Scholarship Scheme To Some Oworo Students in Higher Institutions

Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana, operates a Scholarship Scheme for its host communities in line with provisions of the Community Development Agreement

Dangote Cement Extends Scholarship Scheme To Some Oworo Students in Higher Institutions

Dangote Cement Plc has expanded its scholarship programme beyond her immediate communities’ to cover other communities in Oworoland, Lokoja LGA,  Kogi State.

Speaking at the scholarship award ceremony in Obajana on Monday, the Plant Director, Azad Nawabuddin, explained that although the Oworo communities do not fall directly within the company’s catchment areas, Dangote Cement had chosen to extend its generosity by extending her CSR activities, most especially scholarship scheme to Oworo students using the wider reach and credibility of Oworo Development Association (ODA)

The Plant Director noted that over years, Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana, operates Scholarship Scheme for its host communities in line with provisions of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) and in the spirit and letters of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

He added that, beyond the scholarship programme, the company is also providing five boreholes to five different Oworo communities, which further demonstrates its commitment to improving the welfare of  Oworo people.

He assured the communities that the company remains committed to sustaining its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme across the Oworo District.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager of Social Performance, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi, disclosed that out of the initial 50 beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme, 26 are females while 24 are males.

He said: “As a policy, we will continue with each beneficiary, until they complete their academic programmes, provided they are able to sustain their academic performance, and we will only replace them with fresh beneficiaries upon exit of some current beneficiaries from school.”

MrAdeyemi said the initial 50 students for the 2025/26 session were selected with the active support of the Oworo Development Association, with other key stakeholders.

“Permit me to note that today’s event is not just about financial support, it is about investing in the future of our community. These scholarships symbolize hope, opportunity, and the belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves a chance to pursue their dreams through education,” he added.

In his remark, the President of the Oworo Development Association, Alhaji Jibril Odoga Ibrahim, commended the Dangote Cement Plc for what he described as a dream come true for Oworo people.

He added: “To our young beneficiaries, I urge you to see this scholarship as a challenge to excel. Work hard, remain disciplined, and make your community proud. The opportunity before you today is a seed, nurture it well so that one day you will give back to others.”

The Association’s President prayed for more blessings from God for Alhaji Aliko Dangote.

Speaking also, the Kogi State Commissioner for Education who was represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Mrs. Omolayo Bilkisu, said the government of Kogi State believes in a Public Private sector partnership to move the State forward, adding that the government is proud of the support the company is offering to the communities through its education and empowerment programmes.

The Olu of Apata Oba Federick Balogun said: “Education remains the strongest foundation for development, and by supporting our sons and daughters in their academic pursuits, Dangote Cement has once again demonstrated its commitment to the growth and wellbeing of its host communities. This gesture will ease the burden on parents, encourage hard work among students, and inspire hope in many households.”

Oba Ahmodu Umar Adoga, who is the Obaro of Ogbagon Community said his community will continue to be grateful as education opens doors of opportunities for the youth.

“Oworo communities will not be the same again,” he added.

He added: “Once again, we thank Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the management, and staff of Dangote Cement Plc for their continued support. May this bond of cooperation between the company and Obajana grow stronger for the benefit of all.”

Honourable Victoria Temitope, who is a Councillor representing Oworo  ward in Lokoja LGA Legislative House, thanked the President of the Dangote Group for the support and urged beneficiaries to maximize the advantages by studying hard.  

“To our sons and daughters who have received this opportunity, I encourage you to study hard. Make the best use of it. Tomorrow, you will be the doctors, engineers, teachers, and leaders that will bring pride and progress back to the Oworo communities,” she said. Read More

Press Release: Simon Ekpa and Peter Obi’s Loud Silence – Coalition of CSOs Condemn Obi’s Graveyard Silence

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Press Release: Simon Ekpa and Peter Obi’s Loud Silence – Coalition of CSOs Condemn Obi’s Graveyard Silence

Peter Obi

A Coalition of Civil Society Organizations has emphatically condemned the obvious ” deaf and dumb” posture of Peter Obi, the Labour Party Presidential candidate in last general elections, to the news of conviction of one his allies, Simon Ekpa in a Finland Court for involvement in as well as financing terrorism in the South Eastern part of Nigeria.

The Coalition noted that , “For a self-crowned conscience of the Nigerian nation whose pastime has been to run commentary on everything, scathingly criticizing every well-intentioned move of government for cheap political gains, one would have expected that, by now, Peter Obi would have lent his croaky voice to that of millions of Nigerians who have lauded the conviction of Biafra’s self-styled Prime Minister, Simon Ekpa by a Finnish court.”

It would be recalled that before his arrest and subsequent trial, Simon Ekpa had relentlessly incited and instigated violence in the South East region that resulted in the death of innocent Nigerians, including security personnel. At the peak of his terrorism against the Nigerian State, he outlawed conduct of external examinations, including WAEC and NECO, and threatened to stop general elections from holding in the region. Ekpa’s image as a terrorist and separatist loomed larger than life.

 The body submitted that, “Yet, in all of his loquaciousness, Peter Obi has neither condemned the mayhem that Simon Ekpa and his Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) mob had unleashed on his homestead nor has he spoken up against the  Monday stay-at-home phenomenon across the South East that has negatively impacted on the economy of the once buoyant region. Instead, Obi prefers to play the ostrich. He would rather comment and condemn everything that the government initiates even if it’s in the best interest of our dear nation.

Nigerians can clearly see through Obi’s hypocrisy. His deafening silence on issues bordering on the South East, especially the IPOB – sponsored terrorism, only confirms his tacit endorsement for both terrorism and secession. Electing such a nepotistic separatist to lead a nation in dire need of unity and cohesion  is a no-no.

Signed: Coalition of Civil Society Organizations

Beyond Politics…, Gbenga Daniel’s Free Eye Care Wins Hearts, Changes Lives in Ogun East

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By Lukman OMIKUNLE

Senator Gbenga Daniel’s free eye care initiative has restored vision and dignity to thousands in Ogun East, earning him unwavering support as a humanitarian leader and their representative at the Senate

Beyond Politics…, Gbenga Daniel’s Free Eye Care Wins Hearts, Changes Lives in Ogun East

In a political landscape often dominated by rhetoric and promises, some leaders choose to measure their success by tangible impact.

For Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East at the National Assembly, his legacy is being shaped not just by legislative duties, but by a bold humanitarian mission that has restored sight, dignity, and hope to thousands of his constituents.

On October 16, 2023, Senator Daniel launched a free eye care programme that has since touched lives across Ogun East Senatorial District and beyond. Over 1,000 people from the nine local government areas benefited from the first phase alone, which ran simultaneously in Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, Ijebu Igbo, and Ogun Waterside. Organized under the banner of his Gateway Front Foundation (GFF), in collaboration with Eye Foundation Hospital, the initiative offered free eye tests, screenings, medicated glasses, drugs, and life-changing surgeries.

“Good sight enhances mental and psychological well-being, and also improves productivity. This programme is part of my mission to make life more pleasant for our people,” Senator Daniel affirmed at the launch.

The results have been nothing short of transformative. From elderly residents who can now see clearly after years of blurred vision, to students who can finally read without strain, the initiative has restored more than eyesight—it has restored hope.

Beneficiaries have described their experiences in emotional terms. A grandmother from Sagamu who received free medicated glasses said, “I had given up hope of ever seeing well again. Today, I can thread a needle and read my Bible without help. Senator Daniel has given me back my independence.”

For a young farmer in Ijebu Igbo, the programme meant productivity, “Before, I couldn’t see well enough to sort my harvest properly. Now, with my treatment, I can work faster and earn better. This is more than healthcare; it is empowerment.”

Such stories explain why many beneficiaries are insisting that Senator Daniel must continue as their representative. For them, his service is proof that politics, when anchored in compassion, can transform lives in real, practical ways.

Daniel’s emphasis on humanitarian projects is not accidental. Long before becoming a senator, as a two-term governor of Ogun State, he built a reputation for grassroots development through the Gateway Front Foundation. For two decades, GFF has rolled out scholarships, vocational training, microcredit for traders, and health outreaches that continue to shape communities across the state.

For Daniel, humanity comes first because, as he often says, “representation is meaningless if it doesn’t translate to real welfare for the people.” His commitment to health initiatives—whether eye care or microcredit empowerment—reflects a philosophy that the wellbeing of citizens is the truest measure of governance.

The overwhelming support Daniel enjoys in Ogun East is rooted in this people-first approach. His free eye care initiative, alongside other programmes, has made him not just a senator but a lifeline for many who had been forgotten. Across political divides and social classes, communities see him as a leader whose compassion is matched by delivery.

As one community leader in Ijebu Ode remarked, “We know politicians who only come around during elections. But Senator Daniel has shown us he is here for us, always. That is why we will continue to stand by him.”

Beyond Ogun East, Daniel’s free eye care initiative is being hailed as a model for tackling healthcare gaps in underserved communities. It illustrates how targeted, well-funded interventions can uplift thousands and inspire confidence in governance.

Looking ahead, plans are already underway to expand the outreach, sustain monthly clinics in communities, and deepen awareness about preventive eye health. If the past two decades of GFF’s work are anything to go by, the programme will only grow stronger.

For now, Senator Gbenga Daniel has achieved what many politicians struggle to, he has turned representation into restoration, proving that when leaders put humanity first, they not only win elections—they win hearts. Read More

Hilda Baci to Cook 250 Bags of Rice in Giant 22,619-Litre Pot for New Jollof World Record

Former Guinness World Record holder Hilda Baci plans to cook 250 bags of rice in a massive 22,619-litre pot on September 12, 2025, aiming to feed 10,000 people and set a new jollof record

Hilda Baci to Cook 250 Bags of Rice in Giant 22,619-Litre Pot for New Jollof World Record

Nigerian chef and former Guinness World Record (GWR) holder, Hilda Baci, is set to embark on another ambitious culinary challenge — this time, to cook the biggest pot of jollof rice in history.

Hilda Baci to Cook 250 Bags of Rice in Giant 22,619-Litre Pot for New Jollof World Record

In a video shared on her Instagram page on Monday, Hilda announced plans to cook 250 bags of basmati rice using a giant pot with a 22,619-litre capacity.

Breaking down the logistics, she explained, “I’m making the executive decision to cook 250 bags of basmati rice. The pot is 6 meters wide by 6 meters wide, 1.1 meters tall, and about 1.3 meters deep. I’m sure the pot is not going to sink.”

The event, scheduled for September 12, 2025, is expected to feed at least 10,000 people, marking another milestone in her record-breaking journey.

Hilda, who became a household name in 2023 after cooking continuously for 93 hours and 11 minutes to break the world record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, is now set to make history again with what is being billed as the largest jollof pot ever cooked. Read More