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Aliko Dangote Foundation Distributes 40,000 bags of rice to People Living with Disabilities, vulnerable in Ogun, Others

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Aliko Dangote Foundation Distributes 40,000 bags of rice to People Living with Disabilities, vulnerable in Ogun, Others

The Foundation initiated the food intervention programme to help contribute to the federal government efforts for food security

Aliko Dangote Foundation Distributes 40,000 bags of rice to People Living with Disabilities, vulnerable in Ogun, Others

In furtherance of its National Food Intervention programme, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has commenced the distribution of 40,000 bags of rice in all the 20 local government areas in Ogun State government, with priority to People Living with disabilities and other vulnerable in the State.

Speaking during the flag-off of the distribution of the 10kg bags of rice to the people of the State in Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun commended the Foundation saying the donation of the gift items to the state indigenes was in tandem with his government’s efforts aimed at providing succor to the people during this trying period.

The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi at the flag-off ceremony held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, expressed satisfaction that the Foundation has been partnering with the state in various sectors, including health, empowerment, and security.

Governor Abiodun recalled the crucial roles played by the ADF during the Covid-19 Pandemic to reduce the effect of the disease by providing critical infrastructures. He added that the Foundation has also been of tremendous support to the Ogun State security architecture with patrol vans, among other contributions.

“When corporate organizations engage in initiatives like this, we should highlight them so that others can learn from it. Not everything is about coming, making money, and leaving. This is a gesture that should be replicated by every corporate entity because you have to empathize with the people, and I think what the Dangote Foundation has done is to consistently prioritize care for people,” he said.

Governor Abiodun cautioned against the sale of the food items, stating that anyone caught selling them would face consequences and that state will monitor the distribution to be sure those are mean to get them actually get them.

“To our market women, don’t say that someone brought it to you and you are now selling it. The rice is meant to be given to the people free of charge; it is for empowerment,” he warned

Earlier in her address of welcome, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Mrs. Funmi Efuape, acknowledged the support the Dangote Foundation has given to the state government and the various Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives it has undertaken for its host communities.

The Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Victor Edero, in his goodwill message, said the Foundation initiated the food intervention programme to help contribute to the federal government efforts for food security so that Nigerians especially the vulnerable have access to the most staple food, rice at this period of global economic downturn.

He explained that ADF, focuses on three core areas: health, empowerment, and nutrition and has partnered governments at all levels to provide a lift in all the sectors

The National Food Intervention initiative, according to him is borne out of the current economic situation where people find it difficult to make ends meet, adding that the foundation is partnering with the state government to bring succor to the less privileged in society, calling for equitable distribution to all beneficiaries.

The Iyaloja General of Ogun State, Mrs. Yemisi Abbas, appreciated the Dangote Group for always identifying with the people, while appealing to the Foundation it to initiate a loan scheme as a form of empowerment to eradicate poverty in the state.

Representatives of People Living with Disabilities, the Trade Council, and the Youth Council, one after another, thanked Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his magnanimity and also lauded the state government for always seeking ways to mitigate the people’s suffering, stating that the collaboration with Dangote is an indication that the government and the private sector can work together for the good of the people.

At the occasion, representatives of People Living with Disabilities, Widows, Trade Council, Youth Council, Market women, Artisans and other women’s groups, were given bags of rice for onward distribution to their members. Read More

US Resumes Student Visas, Requires Social Media Access from Applicants

Lukman Omikunle
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US Resumes Student Visas, Requires Social Media Access from Applicants

The announcement brings mixed feelings for thousands of prospective students globally—especially in Nigeria

US Resumes Student Visas, Requires Social Media Access from Applicants

The United States has officially resumed processing student visas for international applicants—but with a new requirement that’s raising eyebrows: access to personal social media accounts.

In a notice issued Wednesday, the U.S. State Department announced the lifting of a temporary suspension—imposed in May—on student visa applications. However, it introduced a new stipulation requiring applicants to grant access to their social media profiles for government scrutiny.

Consular officers will now review posts and messages to flag content deemed hostile to the U.S. government, its values, institutions, or culture. Refusal to provide access could result in visa denial, as officials view it as a possible red flag for concealment of online activity.

The decision follows the Trump administration’s push to tighten immigration screening procedures. Last month, the administration paused new interview appointments to allow for the integration of the expanded social media checks.

The announcement brings mixed feelings for thousands of prospective students globally—especially in Nigeria, where many have eagerly awaited a return to normal visa operations ahead of the new academic session.

Relief Among Nigerian Students

Samuel Johnson, a Nigerian Ph.D. student at Florida State University, expressed relief after facing rejection due to the suspension.

“I was traumatized after my rejection at the U.S. embassy over the F1 visa suspension, but now I feel relieved that the ban has been lifted. I can finally return to complete my education,” he said.

Ahmed Ambali, who was admitted to Texas University, shared similar frustration.

“I’ve been trying to book an appointment since May, but the site wouldn’t open. I already paid the $185 visa fee, but it didn’t reflect on the system, and I couldn’t secure an appointment. I haven’t received a refund, but I believe things will be resolved now that the suspension has been lifted,” he said.

Tighter Global Vetting Measures Looming

Beyond visa resumption, the U.S. is also increasing pressure on foreign governments. In a diplomatic cable sent over the weekend, the Trump administration warned 36 countries—including Nigeria—to upgrade traveler vetting procedures within 60 days or risk inclusion on the U.S. travel ban list.

Currently, the ban affects 12 countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, and Libya. New restrictions have also been placed on nations like Cuba, Laos, Togo, and Venezuela for failing to meet U.S. immigration and security standards.

Critics argue that the growing list, which heavily impacts African and Middle Eastern countries, reflects a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy under the guise of national security.

For now, students worldwide can once again apply to pursue their studies in the United States—but only if they’re willing to let immigration officers scroll through their social feeds. Read More

“The Road Is Still as Bad as Ever…,” Ogun Residents Refute Gov. Abiodun’s Claim of Completing Sango-Ijoko Road

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“The Road Is Still as Bad as Ever…,” Ogun Residents Refute Gov. Abiodun’s Claim of Completing Sango-Ijoko Road

“The Road Is Still as Bad as Ever…,” Ogun Residents Refute Gov. Abiodun’s Claim of Completing Sango-Ijoko Road

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has come under fire after listing the dilapidated Sango-Ijoko-Akute Road among completed projects under his administration — a claim residents of the area have strongly denied, a report by Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) has revealed.

In a statement published on the Ogun State Government’s official website on Monday, the governor’s office included the Sango-Ijoko-Akute Road as part of his administration’s achievements in Ado-Odo/Otta and Ifo Local Government Areas.

The statement from the government.Credit: FIJ
The statement from the government.Credit: FIJ

“Several road projects have been carried out in the area by the Dapo Abiodun-led administration, focusing on improved connectivity. These include the Akute-Ajuwon road in Ifo II State Constituency, Alagbole-Akute road, Akute-Ijoko-Oke Aro road, Sango-Ijoko-Akute road, and Denro-Ishashi-Oluwakemi road,” the statement read.

However, multiple residents told FIJ on Tuesday that the government’s claim is false and misleading, stating that the road remains largely impassable and neglected.

A resident who has lived along the Sango-Ijoko-Akute stretch for over a decade described the state government’s claim as pure fiction.

“The road is still as bad as ever. What the government does is start construction and abandon it before any sense is made out of it,” he said.

Another local, Victoria, who lives in the Alagbole-Akute axis, confirmed that while some work had been done on certain sections, the road overall remains in poor shape — especially during the rainy season.

Photo Credit: FIJ

“The road is not entirely good; it depends on where you’re entering from. Even the fixed parts are filled with potholes and become terrible whenever it rains,” she explained.

Oluwakunmi, a commuter who frequents the Sango-Ijoko axis, said the road’s condition has forced him to completely abandon the route.

Photo Credit: FIJ

“I don’t use the road anymore because of its state. If it had been fixed, I would have at least heard. The road is still as bad as it was,” he said.

Photo Credit: FIJ

On April 27, FIJ reported that the Sango-Ijoko Road was nearly impassable, with residents struggling to access their homes and businesses, especially during the rainy season when it becomes waterlogged and unusable.

Despite growing criticism from residents, the state government has yet to provide clarity or address the contradiction between its claims and the grim reality on the ground.

As frustrations mount, residents are calling on the state to stop what they describe as “cosmetic politics” and prioritize the actual rehabilitation of roads they depend on daily.

Credit: FIJ

Zenith Bank Reaffirms Dividend Commitment, Targets June 30 Exit from CBN’s Regulatory Forbearance

Lukman Omikunle
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Zenith Bank Reaffirms Dividend Commitment, Targets June 30 Exit from CBN’s Regulatory Forbearance

Zenith Bank further emphasized its strong financial footing, stating that it has successfully raised and surpassed the new regulatory capital requirement of N500 Billion

Zenith Bank Reaffirms Dividend Commitment, Targets June 30 Exit from CBN’s Regulatory Forbearance

Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s biggest bank by Tier-1 Capital, has assured shareholders and investors of its readiness to satisfy all relevant conditions to exit the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulatory forbearance by June 30, 2025. The bank also expressed confidence in meeting shareholders’ dividend expectations in the 2025 financial year.

The clarification comes on the back of heightened scrutiny of Nigerian banks’ capital health following the new CBN directive that suspends dividend payments and tightens oversight for banks with outstanding forbearance-related loans or breaches of the Single Obligor Limit (SOL).

In a statement presented to the Nigeria Exchange (NGX) Group on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the Bank stated that its exposure under the Single Obligor Limit (SOL) forbearance relates solely to a single obligor, pointing out that this exposure will be brought within the applicable regulatory limit on or before June 30, 2025. The bank also confirmed that the forbearance granted on other credit facilities applies to only two (2) of its customers, noting that it has made substantial provisions in respect of these facilities and taken appropriate and comprehensive steps to ensure full provisioning by June 30, 2025.

The bank further emphasized its strong financial footing, stating that it has successfully raised and surpassed the new regulatory capital requirement of N500 Billion, and is therefore well positioned to continue delivering value to all its key stakeholders.

Zenith Bank has continued to distinguish itself in the Nigerian financial services industry through superior service offering, unique customer experience and sound financial indices. The bank has remained a clear leader in the digital space with several firsts in the deployment of innovative products, solutions and an assortment of alternative channels that ensure convenience, speed and safety of transactions.

The Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the fifteenth consecutive year in the 2024 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker Magazine. The Bank was also awarded Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and 2024; Best Bank in Nigeria from 2020 to 2022, 2024 and 2025, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; and was listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023.

Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for 2022, 2023 and 2024 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom. 

The Bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BAFI Awards. The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards. 

Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics. The Bank’s Hybrid Offer was also adjudged ‘Rights Issue/ Public Offer of the Year’ at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025. Read More

ATPN President Visits Lagos State House of Assembly: Talks Collaboration with Hon. Abiodun Orekoya on Youth, Sports, and Tourism Synergy

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ATPN President Visits Lagos State House of Assembly: Talks Collaboration with Hon. Abiodun Orekoya on Youth, Sports, and Tourism Synergy

“We are entering a new season where tourism must become a platform of empowerment—not just for economic growth but as a channel for youth creativity, job creation, and cultural pride”

ATPN President Visits Lagos State House of Assembly: Talks Collaboration with Hon. Abiodun Orekoya on Youth, Sports, and Tourism Synergy

Lagos, Nigeria – In a move that signals renewed momentum for youth-driven tourism development in Nigeria, the President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Prince Adetunji Femi Fadina, paid a high-level courtesy visit today to the Lagos State House of Assembly.

His host: Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, the dynamic Chairman of the House Committee on Youths, Sports, and Social Development—a lawmaker known for championing innovative, people-centered initiatives aimed at empowering Lagos State’s vibrant youth population.

The visit, which took place at the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja, marks the beginning of what observers are calling a “game-changing dialogue” between the tourism sector and legislative leadership, particularly around strategic collaborations that will place young people at the heart of destination development, sports tourism, and creative industry expansion.

While full details of the meeting are yet to be disclosed, the tone of the discussions was unmistakably forward-looking.

According to Prince Fadina, “We are entering a new season where tourism must become a platform of empowerment—not just for economic growth but as a channel for youth creativity, job creation, and cultural pride. Lagos is the pulse of Africa’s creative economy, and it is time we aligned that energy with policy.”

Hon. Orekoya echoed the sentiment with enthusiasm, stating, “This is a welcome conversation. We see tourism not as an isolated industry, but as a bridge between youth innovation, sports excellence, and social transformation. Lagos has the numbers, the talent, and the audience—we just need the right collaborations.”

Sources close to the meeting hint at a robust framework in development—one that could span training programs, local tourism site revitalizations, talent showcases, inter-LGA tourism-sports festivals, and youth-led digital storytelling campaigns.

As the tourism sector looks for practical ways to decentralize and deepen its impact beyond traditional hospitality, this visit underscores ATPN’s national agenda: to make tourism a tool for inclusion, sustainability, and local ownership—especially in urban centers like Lagos, where the energy of the youth can power a billion-naira creative economy.

With follow-up meetings expected in the coming weeks, today’s exchange sets the foundation for a groundbreaking public-private partnership model—one that reimagines Lagos not just as a city of dreams, but as a tourism destination powered by the creativity of its youth. Read More

Dangote Refinery: An Industrial Revolution Liberating Nigeria – Committee on Domestic Crude Oil Sales

Lukman Omikunle
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Dangote Refinery: An Industrial Revolution Liberating Nigeria – Committee on Domestic Crude Oil Sales

“This refinery touches all our lives. There’s scarcely any sector unaffected. From pharmaceuticals to construction, food to plastics, this project is transformational”

President/CE, Dangote Industries Ltd (DIL), Aliko Dangote; Coordinator, Technical Committee of the One-Stop Shop (OSS) for Sale of Crude and Refined Products in Naira Initiative, Maureen Ogbonna; Vice President, Oil and Gas, DIL, Devakumar Edwin, look on as Assistant Quality Assurance Officer, Dangote Petroleum Refinery Laboratory, Nwankwor Favour Alex, shows samples of products from the refinery during the visit of the Technical Committee to Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Fertiliser Plant, Lekki, on Tuesday 17 June 2025.

Dangote Refinery: An Industrial Revolution Liberating Nigeria – Committee on Domestic Crude Oil Sales

The $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has been hailed as a symbol of industrial revolution, driving Nigeria’s economic emancipation.

This commendation was made by the Technical Committee of the One-Stop Shop (OSS) for sale of crude and refined products in naira initiative during a tour of the facility on Tuesday.

Coordinator of the OSS Technical Committee, Mrs Maureen Ogbonna, who led the delegation, described the refinery as a breath of fresh air, impacting virtually every sector of the economy.

“This refinery touches all our lives. There’s scarcely any sector unaffected. From pharmaceuticals to construction, food to plastics, this project is transformational. God has used the President of the Dangote Group to liberate Nigeria. I see this as the beginning of an industrial revolution,” she said.

Noting that, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of achieving full domestic sufficiency in petroleum products and positioning Nigeria as a major global exporter, the committee is committed to eliminating regulatory, operational and logistical barriers that hinder the smooth supply and sale of domestic crude oil and refined products in naira.

Reflecting on the scale and sophistication of the facility, Ogbonna, who had visited during construction and more recently alongside the leadership of the Nigerian Ports Authority, expressed continued awe at its execution.

“It is truly mind blowing that one man could envision and execute such a project. As we toured the refinery, we thought we had seen everything until we reached the laboratory. That lab alone is an institution. I don’t know of any institution in Nigeria or even globally that boasts such a laboratory for petrochemical,” she said.

Applauding the engineering feat, Ogbonna urged Dangote to remain focused and undeterred by detractors, emphasising that the project is a global achievement, not a personal enterprise.

“We feel truly honoured to have been warmly received by the President of the Dangote Group and his team. My advice to him is: do not be discouraged by critics. He was never self centred. Despite the obstacles, he was driven by a vision for Nigeria’s future, reaching far beyond Africa,” she added.

In response, Aliko Dangote applauded the technical committee for its role in supporting the implementation of President Tinubu’s laudable Naira-for-Crude initiative. He commended the positive impact of the naira-for-crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy, noting that it has led to a reduction in petroleum product prices, eased pressure on the dollar, and ensured the stability of the local currency, among others.

However, he noted that due to a shortage of domestic crude oil, the refinery has increasingly relied on imports from the United States to meet its needs in recent months.

Dangote stressed the importance of bold investment in strategic sectors as a key to industrialisation, revealing that building the refinery required extensive infrastructure development, including a world-class, self-sufficient marine facility capable of accommodating the largest vessels globally.  He assured the delegation of the refinery’s commitment to national development.

Designed to process a wide range of crude types, including African and Middle Eastern grades as well as US Light Tight Oil, the refinery has the capacity to meet one hundred per cent of Nigeria’s domestic demand for petrol, diesel, kerosene and aviation jet fuel, with a surplus available for export. Read More

Double Celebration: Olori Aderonke EmmanuelKing Honoured Amid Valiant Prayer Squad’s 3rd Year Milestone

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Double Celebration: Olori Aderonke EmmanuelKing Honoured Amid Valiant Prayer Squad’s 3rd Year Milestone

Double Celebration: Olori Aderonke EmmanuelKing Honoured Amid Valiant Prayer Squad’s 3rd Year Milestone

The atmosphere was charged with spiritual fervor and heartfelt celebration as the Valiant Special Prayer Squad, an intercessory arm of Adron Group’s spiritual framework, commemorated its third anniversary in an all-day prophetic gathering that also marked the 48th birthday of its founder, Olori Aderonke Omotola EmmanuelKing.

More than just a ceremonial event, the gathering was a fusion of spiritual depth and leadership tribute, highlighting the synergy between faith, corporate responsibility, and personal devotion. Olori Aderonke, who also serves as the Vice Chairman and Group Executive Director of Adron Group, has over the years exemplified a model of prayer-driven leadership and values-based stewardship.

Since its inception three years ago, the Valiant Special Prayer Squad has evolved into a spiritual backbone for Adron Group, mobilizing staff members, directors, and stakeholders into consistent intercession, prophetic declarations, and communal worship. The third anniversary, therefore, marked not just a chronological milestone, but a testament to divine guidance, unity, and spiritual growth within the organization.

The day-long celebration was rich with vibrant praise, worship sessions, moving testimonies of answered prayers, and exhortations from ministers of the gospel. Spiritual leaders and squad members led fervent sessions of intercession for the celebrant, the company, its leadership, and the nation at large, reinforcing the squad’s identity as a watchtower over corporate and national concerns.

One of the most touching moments was the outpouring of love and tributes directed at Olori Aderonke, whose commitment to spiritual discipline, staff welfare, and personal mentorship was lauded by all in attendance. Colleagues, friends, and mentees shared stories of transformation and growth under her leadership, painting a picture of a woman whose quiet strength has built bridges between the boardroom and the altar.

Adding to the beauty of the moment was the presence and participation of her husband, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, Chairman and CEO of Adron Group. His visible support, actively engaging in the entire day’s spiritual sessions was a reflection of their personal bond and a strong endorsement of the spiritual structure his wife has built within the company.

In her address, a visibly moved Olori Aderonke gave thanks to God for the grace to lead and impact lives. She expressed deep appreciation to the squad members, her family, and the entire Adron community for their loyalty and spiritual alignment. She also stressed the need for sustained prayer altars within institutions and homes, declaring that every lasting legacy must first be rooted in divine alignment.

The event concluded with a solemn benediction and communion service that left many in renewal and spiritual empowerment.

As the Valiant Special Prayer Squad marches into its fourth year, it does so with renewed strength, carrying a mandate to not only intercede for Adron Group but to be a beacon of spiritual order in corporate Nigeria. Read More

2027: Atiku Hints at Youth-Backed Coalition, Faces Mixed Reactions Over Opposition Bid

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2027: Atiku Hints at Youth-Backed Coalition, Faces Mixed Reactions Over Opposition Bid

Atiku disclosed that a group known as the Coalition of Youth Representatives paid him a courtesy visit

2027: Atiku Hints at Youth-Backed Coalition, Faces Mixed Reactions Over Opposition Bid

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has revealed that his push to form a united opposition front against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections has received support from a coalition of young Nigerians.

Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, disclosed that a group known as the Coalition of Youth Representatives paid him a courtesy visit on Monday, June 16, 2025. The group, led by AbdulAziz Akinsanya, presented him with a strategic document on enhancing youth participation in the emerging coalition movement.

“Our efforts at forging a robust opposition coalition in response to the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians to reclaim and rebuild their country today got the backing of the Coalition of Youth Representatives,” Atiku wrote via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, @atiku.

He continued: “The youth group, a multi-party alliance of young Nigerians, on a courtesy visit led by AbdulAziz Akinsanya, presented a document to me on how the participation of young Nigerians could be maximised in the emerging Coalition. I was inspired by the depth of their proposition and patriotism.”

While Atiku’s announcement drew praise from some supporters, it also triggered a wave of criticism from Nigerians online — many of whom questioned his continued political ambition and urged him to step aside for a younger candidate.

User @BolanleA4 commented: “Any coalition with you as the leader is DOA… You are too old and without a base… Retire!”

Another user, @Airdropglobal5, wrote: “Oga, you’ve been running since 1992 and never won. Don’t you think Nigerians are telling you something? Be a statesman — throw your influence behind Peter Obi.”

Some reactions expressed skepticism about the youth coalition itself.
@mrUmanu_Elijah said: “80% of these so-called youth representatives are Abuja voters. They don’t even know their local ward, not to talk of their polling unit.”

Others were more pointed in their demands, calling for Atiku to step down completely.
@cryptodailyshow wrote: “History matters. Step down for Peter Obi and become a hero of the biggest movement in Africa.”

Despite the criticism, Atiku has yet to formally declare his intention to run in 2027. However, his ongoing engagements with youth groups and opposition leaders continue to fuel speculation about another potential bid. Read More

Aregbesola’s Lagos Loyalists Defect as Yusuf, Orelope-Adefulire Power Bloc Swells in Alimosho

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Aregbesola’s Lagos Loyalists Defect as Yusuf, Orelope-Adefulire Power Bloc Swells in Alimosho

Aregbesola’s Lagos Loyalists Defect as Yusuf, Orelope-Adefulire Power Bloc Swells in Alimosho

Supporters of former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, are abandoning his political camp in Lagos State, particularly in the Alimosho area, as two new political figures — Hon. Bisi Yusuf and Hon. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire — emerge as dominant players in the region’s evolving power structure.

Yusuf, a former chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council and two-term member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and Orelope-Adefulire, a former Deputy Governor and top aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, are reportedly consolidating influence in what used to be Aregbesola’s stronghold.

“They are now backed by higher-ups to take control of things in Alimosho,” a party insider familiar with the dynamics told this publication.

Once considered the political godfather of Alimosho and parts of Lagos, Aregbesola’s dominance stemmed from his stint as Lagos Commissioner for Works and his longstanding ties with President Bola Tinubu. His rise in Osun politics — including two terms as Governor — further entrenched his influence, allowing his loyalists to thrive in Lagos through key appointments and ticket endorsements.

“Even after things soured between him and Tinubu while he was serving as a Minister, he still managed to maintain some control based on his pedigree and past network,” said another party source.

However, his eventual departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) — following a deep political rift in Osun and a failed reconciliation — signaled a turning point. With his exit came a loss of resources and access, leaving his Lagos support structure vulnerable.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

“Once Tinubu loyalists began actively sidelining Aregbesola’s men across Lagos, it became clear that those who didn’t align with the new order would be left behind,” another Alimosho political player observed.

The decisive blow reportedly came during the APC’s local government primaries on May 10.

According to insiders, the exercise was strategically designed to “clear the deck” of Aregbesola’s remaining allies. None of his loyalists won re-election tickets, and no new aspirants from his camp emerged as flag bearers.

“To save their political careers, many of them started switching camps. Some had already begun making moves before the primaries, but the outcome made the need more urgent — especially for those still hesitant,” a source close to the political realignment explained.

The shift marks a significant turning point in Lagos grassroots politics, particularly in Alimosho — once the nerve centre of Aregbesola’s Lagos influence. Political watchers say the developments underscore the rise of a new power bloc and the continued reconfiguration of party loyalty as Nigeria heads toward future elections. Read More

EFCC Arraigns Company Director Over Alleged N13.8bn Investment Scam

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EFCC Arraigns Company Director Over Alleged N13.8bn Investment Scam

Precious Williams pleaded not guilty to all the charges during the arraignment


The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Precious Williams, Director of Glossolalia Nigeria Ltd and Pelegend Nigeria Ltd, over her alleged involvement in a fraudulent investment scheme that reportedly swindled over 3,000 Nigerians out of N13.8 billion.

Williams was brought before Justice S.I. Mark of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt on a 14-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretence, and money laundering.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, on Monday.

“Williams was arraigned for allegedly defrauding over 3,000 investors of N13.8 billion through a phoney investment scheme,” Oyewale said.

According to the anti-graft agency, between August 2019 and February 2020, Williams allegedly received N10 billion via a Sterling Bank account belonging to her company, which was traced to Maxwell Chizi Odum (currently at large) and his firm, MBA Trading and Capital Investment Ltd. The funds were said to be proceeds of fraud obtained under the guise of offering monthly returns of 10 to 15 percent.

Further investigations revealed that Williams and Pelegend Nigeria Ltd also received over N1 billion between December 2019 and November 2020 through a Polaris Bank account, which the EFCC suspects was part of the fraudulent MBA scheme.

During the arraignment, Williams pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

Prosecution counsel, E.K. Bakam, requested that a date be set for trial and that the defendant be remanded in custody pending proceedings. In response, defence counsel, Tochukwu Maduka, urged the court to grant Williams bail to allow adequate preparation for her defence.

However, Justice Mark sided with the prosecution’s objection, stating that the bail application was premature, having been filed prior to the amendment of charges and formal arraignment.

The judge subsequently ruled, “A fresh bail application must be submitted,” and ordered Williams to be remanded at the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre until the next hearing.

The court adjourned the case to June 18 for the bail application hearing.

EFCC noted that Williams was arrested following numerous petitions from victims who alleged they were lured into investing their funds through MBA Trading and Capital Investments Ltd with assurances of high monthly returns.

“These returns were never paid, and the invested funds were neither refunded nor reinvested,” the commission stated.

The EFCC has vowed to pursue justice for the victims and ensure that those behind the massive scam are held accountable. Read More

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