Category Archives: News

Trump arrives in Scotland for four-day visit

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U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Scotland on Thursday evening for a four-day private visit, marking a rare trip by a sitting American president to the country. His visit includes high-level meetings, golf course openings, and renewed criticism of wind energy and immigration policies in Europe.

Air Force One touched down at Prestwick Airport shortly before 8:30 p.m., where Trump was received by Scottish Secretary Ian Murray and U.S. Ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens. He spoke briefly to journalists before departing for his Turnberry golf resort in South Ayrshire.

“It’s great to be in Scotland,” President Trump told reporters, as his motorcade of more than two dozen vehicles made its way to the resort.

Praise for Starmer and Trade Deal

Trump expressed admiration for UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, whom he is set to meet on Monday. “I like your Prime Minister. He’s slightly more liberal than I am – as you’ve probably heard – but he’s a good man. He got a trade deal done,” he said. “They worked on that deal for 12 years — he got it done. It’s a good deal for the UK.”

He also spoke positively of Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, calling him “a good man”, and said he looks forward to their meeting.

Golf, Protests, and a Security Clampdown

Trump is expected to spend the weekend at Turnberry before traveling to Aberdeenshire to open a new 18-hole golf course at his Menie estate. Referring to the late actor Sean Connery, Trump said: “If it weren’t for Sean Connery, we wouldn’t have those great courses — he helped get me the permits.”

Read Also: Trump halts Student Loan forgiveness under IBR plan

His arrival has sparked planned protests in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, and a large-scale security operation is underway across South Ayrshire and Aberdeenshire. Police Scotland, reinforced by officers from across the UK, has implemented road closures, diversions, and security checkpoints, including a high perimeter fence around Turnberry.

Criticism of Wind Farms and Immigration

Speaking at Prestwick, Trump took aim at wind energy projects, calling them harmful to the landscape and wildlife. “Stop the windmills. You’re ruining your countries. It’s so sad,” he said. “They’re ruining your beautiful fields and valleys, and if they’re in the ocean, they’re ruining your oceans.”

Trump has long opposed wind power projects in Scotland, including one off the coast of Aberdeen that he fought, and lost, in court in 2019.

He also delivered a warning on illegal immigration, calling it an “invasion that’s killing Europe.” Drawing parallels to his own U.S. immigration policies, Trump claimed, “Last month, we had nobody entering our country. Nobody. We shut it down.”

He accused Europe of failing to act, saying, “You’ve got to stop this horrible invasion or you won’t have Europe anymore.”

Epstein Case, Pardons, and Diplomacy
When asked about developments in the Epstein files and Ghislaine Maxwell’s

Tinubu has not neglected the North, Presidency debunks Kwankwaso’s claim

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The Presidency has refuted claims by former Kano State Governor and 2023 NNPP presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has sidelined Northern Nigeria.

Kwankwaso had alleged during a stakeholders’ meeting on the 2025 constitutional amendment in Kano on Thursday that the North is being marginalised, with national resources skewed in favour of the South. He cited deteriorating federal road networks in the region, recounting a harrowing road trip from Abuja to Kano after a cancelled flight.

In response, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, dismissed the allegations in a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday.

Dare asserted that the Tinubu administration is committed to inclusive national development, highlighting several infrastructure and social investment projects actively ongoing across the North.

“The claim that Northern Nigeria has been left behind is incorrect,” he stated. “The Tinubu administration has initiated and sustained major projects in the North spanning roads, agriculture, energy, and healthcare.”

He listed key projects such as the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway, the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway, and the 614-kilometre Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline as evidence of development efforts in the region.

Read Also: APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

Dare also pointed to the $158.15 million Agriculture Value Chain Development Programme being implemented across nine northern states, along with the Kolmani Integrated Development Project straddling Bauchi and Gombe states.

Additional programmes include the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative, which seeks to reclaim one million hectares of degraded land in the North.

In the healthcare sector, the presidency noted major upgrades at facilities including Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria, University of Jos Teaching Hospital, and Federal Medical Centre in Nguru. Over 1,000 primary healthcare centres are also undergoing revitalisation across northern states.

Road infrastructure projects cited include the Kano–Kongolam Road, Kaduna–Jos Road, Kano–Maiduguri Dual Carriageway, and rehabilitation works in Borno and Adamawa states.

On the energy front, Dare mentioned the Gwagwalada Power Plant and upcoming solar power initiatives in Kaduna, while also citing ongoing work on the Kaduna–Kano and Kano–Maradi rail lines, as well as the Abuja Metro rehabilitation project.

“From critical road networks to power infrastructure, rail, agriculture, and health, the Tinubu administration has the North well covered,” Dare concluded.

Emir of Gusau Ibrahim Bello dies at 71

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Gov. Dauda Lawal of Zamfara has announced the death of the Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, aged 71, following a protracted illness.

The governor said this in a statement issued by Sulaiman Idris, his Spokesperson and Senior Special Assistant on Media.

He stated that the emir passed away on Friday morning in Abuja.

He commiserated with the people of Zamfara, describing the death as a personal loss.

He said “the late Emir of Gusau, Ibrahim Bello, was a supportive royal father and a capable leader who dedicated himself to making Zamfara State better.

Read Also: Former President Buhari dies at 82

“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau.

“I expressed my heartfelt condolences to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, immediate and extended families of the late Emir, Gusau emirate, as well as the entire people of Zamfara State.

“His Highness’s passing is a huge loss for the people of Zamfara, as well as for the North and Nigeria as a whole.

“The late royal father dedicated 10 years of serving the people after becoming the 15th Emir of Gusau on March 16, 2015. He led with commitment, dedication and strong sense of faith.

“The late emir was an accomplished civil servant who rose to the highest position of Permanent Secretary during his service in old Sokoto and Zamfara states.

“I have lost a confidant and a father whose wisdom guides me and other state leaders. May the Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah.”

(NAN)

FULL LIST: LPPC shortlists 57 lawyers for 2025 Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) 

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 The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has officially released the list of 57 candidates shortlisted for the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) for the year 2025.

According to a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by Kabir Akanbi, Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and Secretary of the LPPC, the list comprises 56 legal practitioners and one academic who met the stringent requirements for elevation to the rank.

The statement further revealed that the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, granted approval for the shortlist during the 169th Plenary Session of the Committee held on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

The rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is regarded as the pinnacle of legal recognition in the country. It is conferred on legal professionals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence either through advocacy in the courtroom or through impactful contributions to academic legal scholarship.

The LPPC also confirmed that three petitions were filed against some applicants during the selection process. However, after a comprehensive review, all the petitions were dismissed as lacking merit.

In line with the protocols established by the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), all shortlisted candidates are mandated to undergo and complete the Pre-Swearing-In Induction Programme — a compulsory requirement before the final conferment of the SAN title.

Read Also: FULL LIST: 24 qualified countries for AFCON 2025

The statement also cautioned nominees against engaging in any form of publicity or congratulatory advertisement prior to the official swearing-in ceremony:

“In line with Paragraph 25(1) of the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Guidelines and Rule 39(3) of the Rules of Professional Conduct, 2023, all shortlisted conferees are strictly prohibited from sponsoring or encouraging advertisements, goodwill messages, or congratulatory notices related to their nomination or conferment. Any violation may attract disciplinary measures,” the LPPC warned.

The official Swearing-In Ceremony for the successful candidates is scheduled to take place on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Here are 57 candidates for 2025 Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Rank

1.            Theophilus Esan

2.            Fedude Zimughan

3.            Ernest Ikeji

4.            Victor Esiriakpoguma

5.            Leslie Njemanze

6.            Akintunde Adewale

7.            Preye Agedah

8.            Omamuzo Erebe

9.            Hannibal Uwaifo

10.          Olumide Ekisola

11.          George Ukaegbu

12.          Oromena Ajakpovi

13.          Tairu Adebayo

14.          Bawa Ibrahim

15.          Suleh Umar

16.          Emeka Akabogu

17.          Godwin Ogboji

18.          Godwin Idiagbonya

19.          Adeolu Salako

20.          Adetunji Oso

21.          Achinike William-Wobodo

22.          Shuaib Mustapha

23.          Adizua Okoroafor

24.          Olanrewaju Akinsola

25.          Amaechi Iteshi

26.          Adakole Inegede

27.          Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya

28.          David Ogebe

29.          Aminu Gadanya

30.          Oluseun Adeniyi

31.          Ikechukwu Uwanna

32.          Ayodeji Ademola

33.          Kelechi Nwaiwu

34.          Lawal Hudu

35.          Ibim Dokubo

36.          Luka Abubakar Musa

37.          Shakeer Oshodi

38.          Oluwole Jimi-Bada

39.          Mubarak Adekilekun

40.          Chinyere Ekene Moneme

41.          Shuaibu Labaran

42.          Kingsley Udeh

43.          Augustine Audu

44.          Ali Zubairu

45.          Adeyemi Pitan

46.          Habeeb Oredola

47.          Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal

48.          Victor Agunzi

49.          Nkwegu Ogbagaegwu

50.          Bidemi Ademola-Bello

51.          Temilolu Femiadamolekun

52.          Abdulkarim Maude

53.          Adedayo Adesina

54.          Usman Zaiyanu

55.          Taiwo Hassan

56.          Olufemi Oyewole

Shortlisted Academic:

57.          Professor Chima Ubanyionwu

IPOB Jewish community demands immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, slams FG over ‘unjust detention’

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The IPOB Jewish Community in Imo State has issued a strong call for the immediate release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and other detained members of the group across Nigeria.

The group made its position known in a statement signed by Scholarstic Nwakaego Anyanwu and made available to journalists on Thursday in Abuja.

In the statement, the group praised Kanu’s courage and unwavering commitment to defending the rights of the Igbo people, describing his continued detention by the Nigerian government as unjust and without legal justification.

“We call for the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and all Biafrans unjustly held in Nigerian detention centers,” the statement read. “We maintain that the APC will not remain unchallenged in the face of these injustices. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is the focal point of our movement, and we will continue to fight for our rights and freedoms.”

Read Also: FG confirms arrest of Simon Ekpa by Finnish authorities

The group decried the persecution of pro-Biafran supporters, highlighting instances of killings, displacements, and forced exiles, which they described as atrocities committed by the state.

“Tragically, countless individuals have been killed, maimed, and displaced for daring to advocate for justice and equality,” the statement continued. “Our community has faced widespread persecution, forcing many into exile around the world.”

Reaffirming their identity and connection to their heritage, the IPOB Jewish Community asserted their right to either fully participate in Nigeria’s political process or chart a path toward self-determination.

The group also expressed solidarity with Kanu’s family, particularly the family of the late HRM Eze Israel Kanu, and condemned what it called continued oppression under the APC-led government.

“As a woman in exile, I join fellow advocates in mobilizing against the atrocities committed by the APC government against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the family of HRM Eze Israel Kanu, and countless other Biafran families enduring suffering under their regime,” the statement concluded.

Army debunks viral video of foreign arms dealer’s arrest in Zamfara

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 The Nigerian Army has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media purportedly showing the recent arrest of a foreign arms dealer, clarifying that the footage in question was outdated and misleading.

The acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, gave the clarification in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Anele confirmed that the video portrays the arrest of one Shehu Ali Kachalla, a 30-year-old Nigerien national who was apprehended over three years ago by the Police Command in Zamfara on May 14, 2021.

She stated that the suspect was nabbed in a joint intelligence-led operation involving operatives of the Federal Intelligence Bureau (FIB) and the Special Tactical Squad (STS) of the Nigeria Police Force.

According to her, the suspect confessed to have illegally supplied over 450 rifles and thousands of rounds of ammunition to criminal elements across Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger States.

She added that “the resurgence of the old video on social media is therefore, at best, aimed at misinforming the public, while undermining the ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Read Also: President Tinubu charges Army to defeat terrorism, insurgency

“The Nigerian Army maintains zero-tolerance policy for unprofessional conducts, and where there are proven cases of such involving its personnel, appropriate disciplinary actions are always taken in line with the Armed Forces Act and other extant military regulations.

“While the suspect in the 2021 case alleged collusion by unnamed security personnel, no Nigerian Army personnel was indicted or arrested in connection with the matter.”

Anele, therefore, urged the public to disregard the recirculated video as outdated and misleading.

She advised content creators and social media influencers to verify the authenticity and date of materials before sharing same to avoid unnecessary panic or confusion.

“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“We shall continue to collaborate with sister security agencies and communities in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality threatening peace and stability in our country,” she stressed.

(NAN)

Delta Assembly passes community services agency bill

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The Delta  House of Assembly on Wednesday passed the State Community Security Corps Agency bill, 2025.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the bill seeks to enhance community security as well as provide cooperation with security agencies, training, funding and other related matters.

The bill sponsored by Dr Isaac Anwuzi (APC-Aniocha South) and 27 other lawmakers was passed after its second and third readings at the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mr Dennis Guwor.

The Majority Leader of the assembly, Dr Emeka Nwaobi moved a motion for the suspension of the House  Rule 12, Orders 80, 82 and 83, to enable the Assembly take the third reading and its passage.

The motion which was unanimously adopted by the assembly when put to a voice vote by the Speaker, was seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Arthur Akpowowo (APC- Ethiope East).

Guwor said that the bill when signed into law,  would help to give legal framework for the establishment of the State Security Corps Agency.

He added that this would enable the agency to assist the police and other security agencies to carry out any other lawful activities for maintaining law and order in the state.

”Dear colleagues, Section 14, sub-section (2), paragraph (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered) provides that: “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government

”With the successful passage of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill, 2025 we have once again demonstrated our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our people.

Read Also: Rivers Assembly gives Fubara 48 hours to re-present 2025 Appropriation Bill

”There cannot be meaningful development without secure and safe environment, ” he said.

He added, ” this bill that has been sufficiently debated and passed, is a critical step towards strengthening our community security architecture.

”It reflects our collective understanding of the evolving security challenges and our proactive response to ensure that every Deltan can live and work in peace.

”To the sponsors of this bill and indeed every single member of this House, I extend my profound appreciation.

”Your diligence, your incisive contributions during the debates and your dedication to the consideration of the Bill are truly commendable.

”I am optimistic that this bill once signed into law will significantly enhance peace, order and security across all nooks and crannies of our beloved State.”

On his part, the lead sponsor of the bill, Dr Isaac Anwuzia, speaking with journalists shortly after the passage of the bill, said it lwould help to strengthen security architecture in the state.

He thanked the Speaker and colleagues for all the support towards the speedy passage of the bill.

(NAN)

U.S. to withdraw from UNESCO again, citing anti-Israel bias, ‘divisive’ agenda

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The United States has announced it will withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) by the end of 2026, citing concerns over the agency’s alleged anti-Israel stance and promotion of “divisive social and cultural causes.”

U.S. Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Tuesday that remaining in UNESCO was “not in the national interest,” echoing criticisms first raised during former President Donald Trump’s initial decision to pull out of the organization in 2017. That decision had later been reversed by President Joe Biden.

“UNESCO maintains an outsized focus on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda… at odds with our America First foreign policy,” Bruce stated, further describing the body’s 2011 decision to admit Palestine as a member as “highly problematic” and a contributor to anti-Israel sentiment.

Read Also: Trump signs order withdrawing US from UN bodies

UNESCO, a UN agency focused on promoting global peace through cultural, educational, and scientific cooperation, has now faced U.S. withdrawal three times. The first occurred in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan, before Washington rejoined in 2003. Trump’s administration pulled out again in 2017, and while Biden restored U.S. membership, the latest exit under the current administration will become effective in December 2026.

In a social media post, Bruce emphasized that future U.S. participation in global organizations “must make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay responded with “deep regret,” saying the decision undermines the principles of multilateralism and could affect American partners working with the organization. However, she noted that the move had been anticipated.

“UNESCO’s overall budget has steadily increased,” Azoulay said, adding that the U.S. now contributes just 8% of the agency’s funding, down significantly from previous levels. Structural reforms and increased support from other member states and private donors have helped buffer the agency financially.

“The U.S. is and will always be welcome at UNESCO,” Azoulay stated, adding that cooperation with American academic, private, and non-profit institutions would continue, alongside political dialogue with Washington.

The withdrawal adds another chapter to the often tense relationship between the United States and multilateral institutions, and could have wider implications for global cultural, educational, and scientific collaboration.

Airbus strengthens Africa operations with new Johannesburg Customer Centre

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Airbus has officially opened a new Customer Support Centre dedicated to commercial aircraft in Johannesburg, marking a major milestone in nearly five decades of partnership with Africa’s aviation sector.

The facility will bring Airbus closer to airline customers across the continent, enhancing customer proximity and offering a full range of services to help operators maintain safe, efficient, and reliable fleets. The centre will provide technical assistance, engineering and maintenance solutions, fleet performance analysis, training services, and on-site customer support for all Airbus commercial aircraft families, including the A220, A320, A330, and A350.

“The new centre expands Airbus’ presence in Africa and underscores our confidence in the region’s potential, as we invest in local capabilities, empower our customers, drive connectivity and shared progress across the continent,” said Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa.

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Airbus has been present in Africa since 1976, when the first A300 was delivered to the continent. Today, nearly 40 airlines operate more than 260 Airbus aircraft. According to its Global Services Forecast, Airbus foresees in the next 20 years on the African continent, a need for 14,000 new pilots and 21,000 mechanics and engineers to face the surge in air travel demand.

The opening coincides with Airbus Helicopters celebrating 30 years of service and innovation in Southern Africa, where the Midrand hub provides maintenance, spare parts, logistics support, and Africa’s first H125 virtual reality simulator for pilot training.

Airbus Defence and Space also continues to support African governments with military aircraft, Earth observation services, and satellite connectivity solutions.

With more than 180 African suppliers integrated into its global supply chain, Airbus continues to play a key role in developing the continent’s aerospace capabilities. From component manufacturing and maintenance services to training partnerships and technology transfer, Airbus’ industrial presence supports job creation, skills development, and local economic growth across Africa.

Why our party rejected Adeleke’s alleged defection plans, by Osun APC

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The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected claims made by the leadership caucus of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the alleged plans by Governor Ademola Adeleke to defect to the APC.

In a strongly worded statement signed by the state APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, and released on Tuesday, the party dismissed the communique issued by the PDP caucus, signed by Governor Adeleke and 27 other chieftains, as deceptive and misleading. The APC insisted Adeleke was never accepted into the party because he was identified early on as “a trojan horse,” “a political liability,” and a potential threat to the integrity of the party.

“The Osun public knows that it was the fear of a looming defeat in the 2026 election that drove the governor to seek asylum in the APC. His approach was treated with the caution it deserved,” the statement read.

The APC accused Adeleke of presiding over what it described as a decaying PDP structure in the state, alleging that the party has lost its moral compass since the governor took office. It also claimed that credible politicians had continued to defect from the PDP to the APC in protest against what it termed the “brutal hijack” of the party by the Adeleke dynasty.

Read Also: APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

The statement further challenged the PDP’s claim of popularity in the state, asking whether the party consulted students of the University of Ilesa, who are reportedly being charged N1.5 million per session, or the general public, whom it claimed are angry over the government’s alleged N13 billion expenditure on luxury vehicles for political aides, instead of improving public infrastructure.

The APC also cited the case of over 32,000 job applicants who were allegedly duped under the guise of teaching recruitment, accusing the Adeleke administration of mismanaging close to N1 trillion within 30 months.

Lawal questioned why the PDP would expect the APC to accept individuals allegedly under investigation by the EFCC and ICPC for misappropriating local government funds, or those allegedly involved in the killing of APC members during the 2023 elections.

“Those who rejected Adeleke’s defection bid saw it for what it was: a desperate move to escape the people’s wrath in 2026. You cannot abuse President Bola Tinubu publicly in Osun and run to Abuja pretending to be his ally,” the statement continued.

The APC also took a swipe at Adeleke’s economic policies, accusing him of hoarding resources instead of using increased federal allocations to improve healthcare, agriculture, and public welfare in the state.

The party praised the people of Osun who, it said, came out in large numbers to celebrate what it called “the blocking of Governor Adeleke’s unholy attempt” to join the APC.

“This is payback time from Osun people, who have endured misgovernance, high-handedness, and corruption,” Lawal stated. “Let Governor Adeleke stop complaining and await the people’s verdict in August 2026.”

The development marks a deepening of tensions between the two leading political parties in Osun as the state gears up for what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2026 governorship election.