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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Declares Bid for Second Term in Kogi Central, Promises Continued Progress

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Declares Bid for Second Term in Kogi Central, Promises Continued Progress

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has officially announced her intention to seek re-election for a second term, citing overwhelming support from her constituents and family. The announcement was made during a Kogi Central Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja, which gathered key party leaders and supporters to discuss the district’s political future.

In a statement shared by her media office, Akpoti-Uduaghan revealed that after months of consultations and endorsements from across the five local government areas of Kogi Central, she had decided to respond to the call for her to continue serving as their senator. She also acknowledged the encouragement and support from her husband, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Otuoze Uduaghan, describing him as her “steadfast support system.”

“After careful reflection and immense encouragement from my husband, I have accepted your calls to re-contest for a second term as your senator,” she said, to a resounding applause from the audience.

Her decision comes after a surge of grassroots endorsements over the past four months, signaling strong backing from both party loyalists and community leaders. During the meeting, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized the need for party unity and reconciliation, urging all stakeholders to come together as the elections approach.

“This is the time to bring everyone back home. We must reconcile and embrace inclusiveness for the betterment of our party and the success of our elections ahead,” she stated.

PDP Kogi Central Zonal Chairman, Hon. Anthony Akuvada, lauded Akpoti-Uduaghan’s leadership, noting that her tenure has had a profound impact on the district. “She has redefined representation in Kogi Central. From infrastructural development to human capital empowerment, her leadership has been transformative,” he said.

Akuvada also highlighted Akpoti-Uduaghan’s commitment to inclusive governance, praising her ability to remain connected to her constituents through consistent engagement and accessibility. “Her closeness to party members and constituents is a rare quality that continues to unite us,” he added.

The senator’s first term has been marked by significant achievements, including advocacy for improved education, youth and women empowerment, and infrastructural development, earning her respect across political and social divides.

Throughout her tenure, Akpoti-Uduaghan has been known for her grassroots approach, frequently engaging with her constituents through town hall meetings, empowerment programs, and direct outreach initiatives. This personal connection has solidified her as a leader who listens and delivers on promises.

In her remarks, the senator also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her husband, acknowledging his unwavering support throughout her journey. “My husband has been my greatest pillar of strength,” she said, emphasizing the role he plays in her continued service to the people of Kogi Central.

The Kogi Central PDP meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to party cohesion, as leaders pledged to rally behind Akpoti-Uduaghan’s re-election bid, signaling a unified push for victory in the upcoming elections.

Sanwo-Olu Backs Hamzat as Lagos 2027 Successor in Early APC Power Move

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Sanwo-Olu Backs Hamzat as Lagos 2027 Successor in Early APC Power Move

Babajide Sanwo-Olu has publicly thrown his weight behind his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship race, in a move that signals early political alignment within Lagos’ ruling circle.

The announcement came on Monday after a closed-door meeting at Lagos House, Marina, where Hamzat formally declared his intention to run for the state’s top job before members of the State Executive Council and key party stakeholders.

Among those present were members of the influential Governor’s Advisory Council, including Musiliu Obanikoro and Ganiyu Solomon.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu described the endorsement as a unanimous decision, emphasizing that Hamzat possesses the experience and leadership capacity required to govern Lagos.

“We received the Deputy Governor, who came with a strong delegation to formally inform us of his ambition. It was a unanimous agreement that he is well-prepared and capable,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted Hamzat’s track record over the past seven years, praising his integrity, loyalty, and commitment to governance. He noted that their working relationship has demonstrated Hamzat’s readiness to take on greater responsibility.

The governor also acknowledged the role of Bola Tinubu in shaping the political journey of both leaders, describing the endorsement as a continuation of a long-standing vision.

Describing Hamzat as “ready from day one,” Sanwo-Olu said the deputy governor has been groomed for leadership and deserves the opportunity to lead the state.

The meeting, according to him, was part of broader consultations with party leaders and government officials, culminating in a consensus endorsement.

The development underscores early strategic positioning within the All Progressives Congress as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Osimhen Marks Return in Style as Galatasaray Crush Fenerbahçe, Buruk Praises “Team Elevator”

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Osimhen Marks Return in Style as Galatasaray Crush Fenerbahçe, Buruk Praises “Team Elevator”

Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has lauded Victor Osimhen after the Nigerian striker made an immediate impact on his return from injury, scoring in a commanding 3-0 derby victory over Fenerbahçe on Sunday.

Back in the starting lineup for the first time since his injury layoff last month, Osimhen showed no signs of rust. The 27-year-old striker opened the scoring at RAMS Park, giving Galatasaray early control in a high-stakes Istanbul derby.

He came close to doubling his tally early in the second half, but the effort was disallowed for offside. Even so, his movement and physical presence continuously troubled the Fenerbahçe defence throughout the match.

The goal takes Osimhen’s season tally to 20 across all competitions, further cementing his role as a key figure in Galatasaray’s attacking setup.

After the match, Buruk emphasized the striker’s broader value beyond goals, praising his influence on the squad’s overall performance.

“Osimhen is valuable and important for us. He’s a character who elevates the performance of his teammates,” Buruk said.

The win strengthens Galatasaray’s momentum in the title race, with Osimhen once again proving to be a decisive force in their campaign.

2027 Race Heats Up as Pro-Tinubu Group Launches Massive Grassroots Mobilisation in Oyo

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2027 Race Heats Up as Pro-Tinubu Group Launches Massive Grassroots Mobilisation in Oyo

Political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections are already gathering pace in Oyo State, as a pro-Tinubu support group, PBAT AGAIN 2027, begins early mobilisation efforts aimed at consolidating support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The initiative, led by its convener Kunle Adeleke, formally unveiled its state office in Ibadan, describing the move as a strategic step toward strengthening grassroots engagement and political coordination across the Southwest.

Speaking at the commissioning event held along Obafemi Awolowo Road in Oke Bola, Adeleke said the project goes beyond establishing a physical presence, positioning it instead as a platform for sustained political organisation and community outreach.

He explained that the group is built on the principles of continuity, stability, and progress, with a focus on reinforcing ongoing reforms under the current administration.

“Oyo State remains a critical political hub with a legacy of leadership and influence,” Adeleke noted, adding that the new office would serve as a centre for mobilisation, stakeholder engagement, and policy dialogue.

Highlighting the group’s priorities, he pointed to youth inclusion, grassroots participation, and political education as key drivers of the movement. He stressed that success in the next election cycle would depend on early planning, unity, and disciplined execution.

Adeleke also called on members to align personal ambitions with collective goals, emphasizing integrity, loyalty, and service as core values guiding the initiative.

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state who attended the event expressed optimism about the party’s prospects, projecting over one million votes for President Tinubu in Oyo State during the 2027 elections.

Oyo APC Chairman, Otunba Moses Adeyemo, described the launch as a renewed push to galvanise support for the president, urging party members and stakeholders to intensify mobilisation efforts.

Similarly, Senator Fatai Buhari (Oyo North) commended the initiative as forward-looking, noting that it underscores the importance of political actors contributing to governance and community development beyond holding office.

APC chieftain and governorship hopeful Akeem Agbaje, however, cautioned against internal divisions, stressing the need for unity, inclusiveness, and credible candidate selection to ensure electoral success.

Other prominent party figures, including Senator Sarafadeen Alli, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, and representatives of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, also praised the initiative, describing it as a timely move to boost grassroots mobilisation and build momentum for the president’s re-election bid.

They highlighted achievements of the current administration in areas such as economic reforms, infrastructure, and social development, arguing that continuity would further consolidate these gains.

Earlier, the state coordinator of the group, Olatunde Sunmonu, described the commissioning as a landmark moment for Tinubu’s supporters in Oyo, noting that the office would serve as a strategic hub for engagement, consultation, and promotion of the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.

With political alignments gradually taking shape, the early mobilisation drive by PBAT AGAIN 2027 signals the beginning of what is expected to be an intense build-up to the 2027 general elections.

Nigeria Targets Post-Oil Future as Solid Minerals Awards Spotlight Safe Mining, Investment

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Nigeria Targets Post-Oil Future as Solid Minerals Awards Spotlight Safe Mining, Investment

Nigeria is stepping up efforts to reposition its mining sector as a pillar of economic diversification, with the forthcoming Solid Minerals Excellence Awards set to promote safe and sustainable practices across the industry.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, endorsed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that supports responsible mining while boosting transparency, investor confidence and global competitiveness.

The event, themed “Unlocking the Future,” is scheduled to hold on May 14 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, and is expected to attract policymakers, international investors, members of the diplomatic corps and industry leaders.

Organisers say the awards go beyond recognition, serving as a strategic platform to spotlight the solid minerals sector as Nigeria looks beyond oil dependency.

They noted that while oil has long dominated national discourse, critical resources such as lithium, gold, limestone and rare earth metals are increasingly positioning the country as a key player in global industrial and technological supply chains.

Backed by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the initiative will honour companies and innovators contributing to the sector’s transformation and the broader push for economic diversification.

Project Coordinator Femi Da-Silva said the awards aim to give long-overdue recognition to industry players who have quietly driven development.

“We are bringing glamour, prestige and national spotlight to the sector,” he said, noting that the timing aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at transitioning mining from largely artisanal operations to a formal, high-value industry.

According to him, the awards will also highlight improvements in safety standards, regulatory compliance and investment inflows, positioning Nigeria as an increasingly attractive destination for global mining capital.

Award categories include The Titan (Leading Mining Company of the Year), The Green Shield (Excellence in Sustainable and Safe Operations), and The Visionary (Outstanding Contribution to Sector Growth).

Da-Silva added that as Nigeria pivots toward a post-oil economy, the initiative serves as a benchmark for progress and a signal to the international community.

“The message is clear: Nigeria is open for business, and its wealth is solid,” he said.

Bolarinwa Rallies Kwara APC Base, Showcases 2027 Governorship Ambition with Statewide Consultations

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Bolarinwa Rallies Kwara APC Base, Showcases 2027 Governorship Ambition with Statewide Consultations

Former Kwara State APC Chairman, Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, has intensified his push for the 2027 governorship race following the submission of his letter of intent, embarking on a statewide consultation tour across all 16 local government areas.

The move is aimed at engaging party stakeholders, presenting his vision for the state, and consolidating support ahead of the APC primaries.

Bolarinwa’s outreach has been marked by strong engagement with grassroots leaders and party structures, reinforcing his long-standing involvement in Kwara politics. His allies point to his role in the 2019 “OTOGE” political movement, which reshaped the state’s political landscape and delivered victory for the All Progressives Congress.

Building Grassroots Momentum

Across the three senatorial districts, party stakeholders and members have reportedly turned out in large numbers during his visits, signaling broad acceptance of his ambition. Observers say this reception reflects his deep-rooted connections within the party and among local communities.

Strategic Engagement with Party Leadership

At each stop, Bolarinwa has held consultations with APC leaders at the local government level, formally declaring his ambition and outlining his qualifications. These engagements are seen as part of a deliberate effort to secure institutional backing within the party.

Development Agenda Takes Center Stage

During his interactions, Bolarinwa has presented policy ideas spanning key sectors such as security, agriculture, and infrastructure. He emphasized a structured development plan designed to accelerate growth and improve governance across Kwara State.

Focus on Party Structure and Inclusion

Highlighting the importance of grassroots politics, Bolarinwa pledged to strengthen party structures from the ward level upward. He also promised a more inclusive governance approach, ensuring that stakeholders at the local level are actively involved in decision-making processes.

Expanding Political Network

The former APC chairman has also demonstrated his political reach by attracting influential figures within the party. Notably, Yisa Benjamin from Kwara North has reportedly aligned with his candidacy, alongside other key stakeholders across Kwara Central and South.

As the countdown to the APC governorship primary begins, Bolarinwa’s camp projects confidence in his chances, citing his political experience, organizational capacity, and expanding support base as critical factors in the race for 2027.

NAHCON Mobilises Clerics to Boost Pilgrims’ Spiritual Readiness Ahead of Hajj

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NAHCON Mobilises Clerics to Boost Pilgrims’ Spiritual Readiness Ahead of Hajj

The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, has reaffirmed the commission’s resolve to strengthen pilgrims’ education and spiritual preparedness ahead of the forthcoming Hajj exercise.

Speaking during a strategic engagement and inauguration of the Hajj Ulama Team at the Conference Hall of Hajj House in Abuja, Abba emphasized that proper guidance remains central to a successful pilgrimage.

The high-level meeting convened 120 prominent Islamic clerics from across the country, including Mansur Ibrahim Sokoto, Bala Lau, Abdulmuhyi Nasir, Abdulrahman Olanrewaju Ahmed, Nasir Adam, Muhammad Kabir Haruna Gombe, Usman Usman Dahiru Bauchi, and Isa Akindele Solahuddeen, among others.

At the heart of the discussions was the commission’s renewed focus on comprehensive pilgrims’ orientation. Abba charged the Ulama to intensify sensitisation campaigns in multiple languages, both before departure and during the pilgrimage, to ensure participants clearly understand the core rites and obligations of Hajj.

He stressed the importance of continuous guidance and timely responses to pilgrims’ concerns, particularly in situations that could affect the validity of their worship.

As part of their mandate, the Ulama Team is also expected to organise special prayer sessions at key stages of the pilgrimage, especially at Arafat, with prayers dedicated to Nigeria’s leadership, national security, unity, peace, and economic growth.

In a related appeal, Prof. Umar urged clerics to encourage their congregations to pray for peaceful elections, noting that the upcoming Hajj coincides with Nigeria’s electoral cycle.

The clerics, in a unified stance, underscored the need to prepare pilgrims mentally and spiritually by promoting values such as patience, sincerity, unity, and total devotion to Allah. They described Hajj as a transformative act of worship that requires both knowledge and discipline.

The Ulama Team reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims have a spiritually fulfilling and well-guided Hajj experience.

Lagos Set to Host Africa’s Biggest Food Extravaganza as GTCO Festival Returns Bigger in 2026

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Lagos Set to Host Africa’s Biggest Food Extravaganza as GTCO Festival Returns Bigger in 2026

Nigeria is gearing up for a vibrant culinary showcase as GTCO Food & Drink Festival returns for its 9th edition, promising an even bigger and more immersive experience for food lovers across Africa and beyond.

Scheduled to run from May 1 to May 3, 2026, the three-day festival will take place at the GTCentre in Lagos. This year’s theme, “Everything Food and Drink,” reflects the event’s expansive celebration of culinary diversity, innovation, and shared experiences.

Organised by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), the festival continues to serve as a strategic platform for promoting enterprise within the food and beverage industry while delivering memorable experiences for attendees.

Speaking ahead of the event, GTCO Group CEO Segun Agbaje подчеркed the social and economic importance of food culture. He noted that the festival has consistently fostered meaningful connections between businesses and consumers, while also driving innovation in how people experience food and drink.

“The festival has grown into a living expression of innovation, opportunity, and enterprise that is accessible to all,” Agbaje said.

In response to rising demand, organisers have expanded the festival’s capacity. According to GTBank’s Head of Corporate Communications, Oyinade Adegite, the number of free vendor stalls has increased to 204—offering more small business owners the opportunity to showcase their products to thousands of expected visitors.

Adegite revealed that the vendors were selected through a rigorous and transparent process from over 6,000 applicants, with 90 percent of participants being first-timers—underscoring the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and fresh talent.

Beyond an array of local and international cuisines, the festival will feature masterclasses led by global chefs and food experts, a state-of-the-art children’s play area, live music, and a lively after-party. Entry remains free, reinforcing GTCO’s goal of making the experience accessible to all.

Over the years, GTCO has built a reputation for innovation and stakeholder engagement, supporting businesses through initiatives such as tailored credit facilities for the food and fashion sectors.

As anticipation builds, the 2026 edition of the GTCO Food & Drink Festival is poised to once again transform Lagos into a hub of flavor, culture, and enterprise—bringing together thousands in a shared celebration of food.

Femi Azeez Chooses Nigeria Over England and Spain, Set for Super Eagles Call-Up

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Femi Azeez Chooses Nigeria Over England and Spain, Set for Super Eagles Call-Up

Millwall winger Femi Azeez has officially pledged his international allegiance to Nigeria, ending speculation over whether he would represent England, Spain, or the Super Eagles.

Born in England to a Nigerian father and a Spanish mother, the 24-year-old was eligible to play for all three nations. However, he has now opted to wear Nigeria’s green and white after being approached by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), according to reports from Footmercato.

Nigeria’s head coach, Éric Chelle, recently confirmed plans to scout Europe for eligible Nigerian talents ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup, and Azeez is expected to be part of that recruitment drive.

The talented winger has enjoyed an impressive season with Millwall, recording nine goals and eight assists in 34 Championship appearances. His standout performances also earned him a place in the Sky Bet Championship Team of the Season.

Azeez’s decision is seen as a significant boost for the Super Eagles as they continue strengthening their squad with diaspora talents ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Tinubu’s Infrastructure Drive Transforming Nigeria’s Economy — Ex-Lawmaker Egoh

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Tinubu’s Infrastructure Drive Transforming Nigeria’s Economy — Ex-Lawmaker Egoh

A former member of the House of Representatives for Amuwo-Odofin Federal Constituency, Oghene Egoh, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what he described as significant progress in infrastructure development and bold economic reforms across Nigeria.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Sunday, Egoh said the government’s focus on strategic road projects demonstrates a clear commitment to repositioning the country for sustainable economic growth.

He pointed to several ongoing infrastructure projects, with particular emphasis on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which he described as a landmark initiative with the potential to transform coastal connectivity, boost tourism, and expand trade opportunities within Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.

Egoh described the project as one of the most ambitious in the nation’s history, adding that it reflects a long-term vision for national prosperity.

He also praised the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, noting its expected impact on strengthening North-South trade routes, improving agricultural logistics, and fostering national integration.

According to him, progress on the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway and the accelerated rehabilitation of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway further demonstrate renewed federal attention to critical transport corridors.

“The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is one of the most important economic corridors in Nigeria, and its near completion under President Tinubu is commendable,” Egoh said.

He also highlighted ongoing works on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway and the expansion of the Bodo-Bonny Road, stating that both projects are improving the movement of goods and people across regions.

Egoh commended the administration’s adoption of reinforced concrete pavement technology for major highways, saying it would enhance durability, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure better value for public investment.

On economic policy, he said President Tinubu’s reforms—including fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange adjustments, and infrastructure financing strategies—are laying the foundation for long-term stability despite short-term economic pressures.

“Economic reform is never easy, but courageous leadership requires making tough decisions for the greater good,” he noted, adding that the president has shown strong political will in addressing longstanding structural challenges.

Egoh urged Nigerians to remain patient with the administration, expressing optimism that the benefits of ongoing reforms and infrastructure investments would become more visible in the years ahead.

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