Category Archives: News

Bode George felicitates IBB at 84

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A former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has felicitated former Military Head of State Retired Gen.Ibrahim Babangida (IBB ), on his 84th birthday

George congratulated Babangida  in a statement in Lagos on Monday

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Babangida was Nigeria’s eighth Commander-in-Chief from 1985 to 1993.

George, a retired Commodore, was Military Governor of Old Ondo State from 1987 to 1990 ,during the Babangida years.

He described Babaginda as a patriot, visionary and selfless leader ,who contributed immensely  to national development

He said  the leadership style of the octogenarian was defined by “persuasion, charisma and a high intelligence network.

Read Also: I never once doubted Buhari’s sincerity or his patriotism – IBB

George said Babaginda articulated a vision for the future by mobilising Nigerians toward a desired goal.

He  added as Head of State, Babangida was” bold, resolute, persistent, communicative, inspirational, magnetic, open-minded, innovative, imaginative, collaborative, resolute and goal-oriented”.

The PDP chieftain said he learnt  so much  as a military governor under IBB  and in other military postings.

George said Babaginda  was  instrumental in stabilising democracy in the West African sub-region.

He cited  use of ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) troops by Babangida to restore stability in Liberia after civil war erupted in that country.

‘I join millions of your admirers to celebrate you as you clock 84 years. I want to boldly say, as my boss, that you have made invaluable contributions to the economic and political development of this country.

“This was right from when you joined the Nigerian Army in the 1960s. Even today, you are still mentoring the younger generation to always add value to our democratic system.

“That.is  why I strongly believe you deserve to be celebrated on your 84th birthday. Becoming Head of State at a young age of 44, you shaped the political and economic development of Nigeria in a dynamic way.

“You set out concrete steps to achieve your administration’s specific goals. When you assumed office in 1985, you met 19 states but on Sept. 23, 1987, you created Akwa Ibom and Katsina states.

“On Aug. 27, 1991, you also created nine more states: Abia, Enugu, Delta, Jigawa, Kebbi, Osun, Kogi, Taraba and Yobe, bringing the total number of states in Nigeria then to 30.

“You also created many agencies to spread development across the country.”

 (NAN) 

My journey to Olubadan throne bumpy, filled with trials – Oba Ladoja 

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 Olubadan designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has described his journey to the throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland as bumpy and filled with trials.

Ladoja said this while addressing hundreds of Ibadan residents that besieged his Bodija residence on Monday evening to welcome him.

He recalled his over three-decade journey through the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy, hierarchy, which uniquely requires aspirants to climb 36 carefully arranged steps, beginning from Jagun Balogun.

The former governor of Oyo State said that many of those who started the journey with him when he became Jagun Balogun were no longer alive.

Ladoja recalled that several prominent figures were present when he became Jagun, including MKO Abiola, Lamidi Adedibu, Dejo Raimi, Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Oba Lateef Adebimpe.

Others are Jimoh Alliu and popular actress, Orisabunmi, all of whom he said have since passed away, leaving him to continue the journey alone.

“It has been a journey of patience, perseverance, and the grace of God,” the Olubadan designate said.

According to him, he became Jagun Balogun of Ibadanland on Oct 1, 1993, shortly before his election as a Senator representing Oyo South in the National Assembly.

Read Also: JUST IN: Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin dies

“From there, I steadily rose through the ranks of the Balogun line, a process that has taken me more than 31 years before emerging as the Olubadan designate,” he said.

Ladoja explained further that “while the system is structured and predictable, the timing of ascension is never in the hands of any man, but only God decides”.

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, whom he described as a leader who upheld tradition with dignity.

The Olubadan designate said that he received the news of the demise of Oba Olakulehin with shock, saying he never imagined destiny would call him to the throne so soon.

He commiserated with the family of the late Olakulehin, the entire Olubadan Advisory Council, and the Ibadan indigenes.

Ladoja further expressed gratitude to the Olubadan Advisory Council, which officially nominated him as the next Olubadan, assuring that his relationship with the council would progress.

“I’m fully back and will commence engaging with relevant government and traditional authorities including the state governor, Oluwo and Araba of Ibadanland, as well as others, to determine how to go about the process of coronation,” he said.

The former  governor appealed to Ibadan sons and daughters at home/ abroad, and all Ibadan residents to uphold him in their prayers for God’s guidance.

“I seek your prayers for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to guide me in the discharge of this sacred duty as the new Olubadan.

” It is a huge responsibility, and I pray for divine direction to lead Ibadanland with fairness, peace, and progress,” he stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ladoja, who was nominated as the 44th Olubadan by the Olubadan Advisory Council on Aug. 4 following the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.

He returned to Ibadan on Monday after a long absence from Ibadan. (NAN)

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‎Tinubu mourns Emir of Zuru

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President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of the Emir of Zuru, retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sami (Gomo II), praising his dedicated service to Kebbi and Nigeria.

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‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Emir died on Saturday night in a London hospital, at the age of 81.

In a condolence message issued by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday in Abuja, the President described the Emir’s passing as a profound national loss.

Read Also: VP Shettima mourns Emir of Zuru

He hailed the late traditional ruler, a retired general, as a patriotic leader and a statesman of remarkable honour.

Tinubu recalled the Emir’s time as a former military governor of Bauchi State, where he served with notable distinction and dedication.

He further acknowledged the Emir’s bravery during the Nigerian Civil War, where he served gallantly as a young officer.

The President praised his leadership, which fostered peace, unity, and development across the Zuru Emirate and Kebbi.

He prayed for the Emir’s eternal rest and urged divine comfort for his family and the people of Zuru. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

‎MUYI/KTO

Mark mourns late Emir of Zuru

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The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Sen. David Mark, has paid tribute to the late Emir of Zuru, Sani Sami.

Mark described the late Emir as a gallant soldier, a patriot, and a traditional ruler of honour whose passing marks a great loss to Nigeria.

In a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Paul Mumeh, Mark said Emir Sami lived a life of courage, discipline, and sacrifice in service and leadership.

He recalled that Sami, a retired general, served Nigeria with distinction as a fine officer of the Nigerian Army before becoming Emir of Zuru.

Read Also: VP Shettima mourns Emir of Zuru

According to him, the late Emir upheld the values of peace, unity, and development during his reign, which brought stability and progress to the Zuru Emirate.

Mark noted that Sami was a bridge-builder and custodian of culture whose wise counsel and moderation will be deeply missed by his people.

He stressed that the passing of the Emir is not only a huge loss to the Zuru Emirate and Kebbi, but also to Nigeria.

Mark extended heartfelt condolences to the late Emir’s immediate family, the Zuru Emirate Council, the Kebbi State Government, and the Nigerian Army.

He prayed God to grant the Emir eternal rest and give his loved ones the fortitude to bear what he described as an irreparable loss.

(NAN) 

VP Shettima mourns Emir of Zuru

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Vice-President Kashim Shettima has expressed profound grief over the passing of the Emir of Zuru in Kebbi, retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sami (Gomo II).

The traditional ruler and a reputable retired military officer died on Saturday night in a London hospital, at the age of 81.

In a condolence message on Sunday in Abuja, Mr Shettima described the death of the royal father as a monumental loss to Nigeria’s traditional institution and military heritage.

Mr Shettima stated that the late highly revered emir was an eminent leader who exemplified the rare combination of military discipline, traditional wisdom, and community service that defined Nigeria’s post-independence leadership generation.

According to him, when the giant Iroko tree falls, the landscape itself is forever altered.

”Today, our traditional and military landscapes look markedly different without Maj.-Gen.Sami’s commanding presence that bridged two critical pillars of our national leadership structure.

Read Also: BREAKING: Emir of Zuru Sani Sami dies at 81

“Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sami was not just an Emir or a military officer; he was a symbol of how diverse forms of leadership can unite to serve a common purpose – the betterment of one’s people and nation,” Mr Shettima said.

The vice-president recalled that the late emir’s military background brought a unique dimension to traditional governance.

Mr Shettima said the late emir’s strategic thinking and disciplined approach to leadership significantly enhanced the administrative efficiency of the Zuru Emirate.

He said, “On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, myself, and the entire government of Nigeria, I express our deepest condolences to the immediate and extended families of the late Emir, the Zuru Emirate Council, and the entire people of Kebbi.”

While offering prayers for the repose of the departed emir’s soul, Mr Shettima expressed confidence that his legacy would endure in the hearts and minds of those he served.

”I pray Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

”May Allah also grant his family, the Zuru Emirate Council, the government and people of Kebbi State, and indeed the entire nation the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he prayed.

(NAN)

BREAKING: Emir of Zuru Sani Sami dies at 81

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The Emir of Zuru in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammad Sani Sami (Rtd), Gomo II, has passed away at the age of 81.

A palace source confirmed to News Access NG that the first-class monarch and former military governor of Bauchi State died on Sunday in London.

Born on October 24, 1943, in Zuru, Kebbi State, the late emir joined the Nigerian Army on December 10, 1962, and went on to attend several military training courses both within Nigeria and abroad.

Read Also: Emir of Gusau Ibrahim Bello dies at 71

Following the December 31, 1983 coup that brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power, he was appointed as the military governor of Bauchi State, a position he held until August 1985, when General Ibrahim Babangida assumed leadership.

Until his death, General Sani Sami remained a respected traditional ruler and custodian of Zuru Emirate.

Details shortly…

EPL: Newcastle frustrated by 10-man Aston Villa in goalless draw

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Newcastle United were left frustrated on their Premier League trip to Villa Park after being held to a goalless draw by 10-man Aston Villa, with wantaway striker Alexander Isak absent amid transfer links to Liverpool.

Villa were reduced to 10 men in the 66th minute when Ezri Konsa was shown a red card for pulling back Anthony Gordon as he raced through on goal. Despite their numerical advantage, the Magpies failed to find a breakthrough.

Read Also: Aaron Ramsdale joins Newcastle on season-long loan from Southampton

New signing Anthony Elanga and Gordon both squandered big chances during a dominant first half. Elanga, playing in Isak’s central role, saw his early strike saved by debutant goalkeeper Marco Bizot before heading over from close range. Gordon also missed with a free header as Newcastle’s superiority went unrewarded.

A passive Villa failed to register a single first-half attempt — the first home team to do so in the Premier League since Fulham against Manchester City in May 2024. However, they showed greater intent after the break, with Boubacar Kamara and Ollie Watkins both testing Nick Pope before Konsa’s dismissal forced them to sit deep.

Newcastle pushed late on but lacked cutting edge without Isak, who is reportedly forcing a move to Anfield before the transfer window closes.

AfDB commits $40m to drive AGIA green infrastructure fund

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 The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed 40 million dollars to the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa Project Development Fund (AGIA-PD), anchoring the Fund’s first close of 118 million dollars.

AfDB Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialisation, Mr Solomon Quaynor, made this announcement in a statement on Saturday.

Quaynor said the milestone marked a major step in mobilising blended finance to deliver investment-ready green infrastructure projects across the continent.

According to him, the initiative will help accelerate Africa’s transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.

“The AfDB’s contribution comprises 20 million dollars in grants, 10 million dollars in commercial equity, and 10 million dollars in junior equity from the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa, which it administers,” he said.

He noted that the Bank’s support was designed to de-risk early-stage projects and attract private sector capital.

“Through the 40 million dollars package spanning grants, junior equity, and commercial equity, the AfDB is pioneering a comprehensive approach to unlock Africa’s vast green infrastructure potential.

“This investment is a bold declaration that the Bank stands ready to share early-stage risk alongside our partners, while mobilising billions in private-sector investment,” Quaynor added.

Africa50 CEO, Mr Alain Ebobissé, said the first close demonstrates AGIA’s shift from ambition to execution since its launch at COP27.

Read Also: AfDB secures N3.4trn for agro-industrial processing in Nigeria

“By unlocking early-stage capital, AGIA will accelerate the development of bankable projects, strengthen local capacity, and pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous Africa,” he said.

UK Minister of State for Development, Ms. Jenny Chapman, said Britain’s contribution would support African-led solutions in vulnerable communities.

“We are partnering with countries to unlock private investment in the places hardest hit by climate change.

“This will support solar farms, water treatment plants, and other projects that help build stronger, climate-resilient economies,” Chapman said.

Christine de Barros Said, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Maputo, said Germany, through its development bank KfW, was contributing 26 million euro to spur investment.

“AGIA identifies and develops projects until they reach creditworthiness, then sells them to investors.

“This generates vital investments in renewable energy, transport, water, and digitalization, sectors Africa urgently needs to foster growth and create jobs,” she explained.

President of the West African Development Bank (BOAD), Mr Serge Ekue, said his institution’s involvement reaffirmed its commitment to bridge the infrastructure gap in the region.

“BOAD’s commitment to supporting Africa50 in implementing AGIA underscores our dedication to closing Africa’s infrastructure gap and fostering private sector investment in innovative projects,” he said.

Mr Mark Gallogly, Co-founder of the Three Cairns Group, highlighted the challenge AGIA aimed to solve: “The lack of bankable projects remains a persistent barrier to scaling clean energy and climate-resilient infrastructure.

“AGIA’s first close marks a significant milestone in tackling the challenge,” Gallogly noted.

Ms. Georgia Keohane, CEO of the Soros Economic Development Fund, described AGIA as a vital Africa-led initiative.

“The Soros Economic Development Fund is proud to support AGIA, a critically important partnership catalysing transformative projects that enhance climate resilience and drive inclusive, sustainable development,” she said.

Jointly led by the AfDB, African Union Commission, and Africa50, the AGIA initiative aims to raise 500 million dollars to unlock a 10 billion dollars pipeline of infrastructure projects across energy, sustainable transport, water, and ICT sectors.

(NAN)

FAAN warns against repeat of KWAM 1, ‘KWAM 2’ flight incidents

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The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has cautioned air travelers, aviation staff, and cabin crew to remain calm, courteous, and professional when handling disputes within airports or onboard flights.

This warning, issued on Saturday through FAAN’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, follows two recent high-profile incidents that sparked nationwide debate, the altercation involving Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, and a similar clash aboard an Ibom Air flight involving passenger Comfort Emmanson, whom social media users have now dubbed “KWAM 2.”

FAAN stressed that violence or unruly behavior is never acceptable in any circumstance, urging passengers to always channel their complaints through the proper platforms.

“Stay calm, stay safe: No matter the situation, violence is never the answer. If you have a concern, visit the FAAN Customer Service Desk to lodge a formal complaint, your issue will be addressed promptly and professionally,” the agency said.

Read Also: FAAN launches inter-regional sports to boost staff fitness, teamwork

The Authority further reminded aviation professionals of their responsibility to maintain order and uphold public confidence in Nigeria’s air transport system. Cabin crew were specifically advised to stay composed even under pressure, while also delivering service with courtesy.

FAAN added that continuous training and retraining of aviation personnel would ensure excellent service delivery and conflict-free flights.

Reassuring the public, the Authority concluded:

“Your Safety, Our Priority: FAAN is committed to ensuring safety, security, and comfort at all our airports — so every journey begins and ends with peace of mind.”

By-election: Heavy security at Onitsha polling units

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There was heavy security presence on Saturday across major roads and strategic locations at the Onitsha North Constituency 1 and the Anambra House of Assembly to ensure peaceful by-election.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that security agencies manning the areas include the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigerian Army.

NAN recalls that there were two by-elections going on in the state, aimed at filling the vacant seats at both the Senate and Anambra House of Assembly, following the death of late Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah and late Mr Justice Azuka.

Ubah won his Senatorial election in 2023 under Young Progressives Party (YPP) and later defected to All Progressives Congress (APC), while Azuka represented Onitsha North Constituency 1 at the Anambra legislature under Labour Party (LP).

Read Also: By-election: Heavy security at voting areas in Ibadan

Law enforcement officers were seen in areas such as Agba Street, Orakuwe, Uguta Road and in all the polling units visited at Ward 3, polling unit 016 and 017, Ward 4, polling units 6 and 9 in Okosi respectively.

The Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) Party Agent, Mr Sylvester Mozie, said that the election was going on smoothly.

Mozie noted that there was no case of any violence or card failure on the part of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

On her part, the Presiding Officer in ward 3, Ms Ngozi Ugwuegbu, said she arrived at the polling centre by 8 a.m. and the process was going on smoothly.

(NAN)