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Politics

Makinde Says Fuel Subsidy Removal, Naira Float Hurt Nigerians

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the Federal Government’s economic reforms, arguing that the simultaneous removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira have worsened the economic hardship faced by Nigerians. Makinde made the remarks through the National Leader of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Babatunde Tijani, during the unveiling of the party’s deputy governorship candidate, Deborah Akinlade, as well as its House of Assembly and National Assembly candidates in Abeokuta, Ogun State, ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to the governor, implementing both policies at the same time without adequate relief measures placed an unbearable burden on citizens. He maintained that even advanced economies would struggle to absorb such economic shocks without appropriate support systems. Makinde questioned the government’s claims of economic progress, pointing to the rising cost of fuel, increasing food prices, and continued fluctuations in the foreign exchange market. He argued that many Nigerians are finding it difficult to afford basic necessities despite official assurances that the economy is improving. He also expressed concern over the country’s security situation, saying many citizens no longer feel safe. According to him, the APM aims to provide an alternative platform capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges while improving the welfare of the people. Highlighting the party’s vision, Makinde urged members in Ogun State to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections. He said the APM is committed to rebuilding the economy, restoring security, and easing the hardship experienced by Nigerians. Also speaking at the event, Ogun State APM Chairman and Inter-Party Advisory Council Chairman, Abayomi Sanyaolu, rated the performance of the APC-led Federal Government at 35 percent. He encouraged Nigerians to reject vote-buying, obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and participate actively in the electoral process. Similarly, the party’s governorship candidate in Ogun State, Rotimi Babajide, promised that an APM administration would prioritise agriculture, job creation, education, healthcare, road infrastructure, and grassroots development to improve the quality of life for residents.

Sports

Ajibade Says Falcons Ready to Fight for Victory

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has revealed that the team was determined to give everything on the pitch to avoid consecutive defeats at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following their crucial victory over Zambia. Nigeria entered the match under immense pressure after suffering a surprising 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening group game. Needing a positive result to keep their title defence alive, the defending champions responded with a disciplined performance to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win. The task became more difficult just before halftime when defender Oluwatosin Demehin received a red card for a foul on Zambia captain Barbra Banda, leaving the Falcons to play with 10 players for the remainder of the match. Despite being a player down, Nigeria held firm after Asisat Oshoala scored the only goal of the encounter in the eighth minute. The team successfully contained Zambia’s dangerous attack, led by Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie produced an impressive performance to preserve the lead. Speaking after the match, Ajibade said the players knew victory was non-negotiable following the opening defeat to Malawi. She explained that the team approached the game with total commitment and determination, believing they had to give everything possible to keep their tournament hopes alive. Ajibade also credited her faith for helping her remain calm after Demehin’s dismissal. She said she trusted God throughout the match and believed the team would overcome the difficult situation despite being reduced to 10 players against one of Africa’s strongest attacking sides. According to the captain, there was never any panic within the squad, as every player remained confident they could protect their lead and secure the much-needed victory. The win has revived Nigeria’s chances of reaching the knockout stage. The Super Falcons will now face Egypt in their final group match, needing at least a draw to book a place in the next round as they continue their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.

Sports

Sanwo-Olu Declares Lagos Ready for 2026 CAF Awards

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host the 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards following an inspection of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, popularly known as the National Theatre, by a CAF delegation. The five-member CAF team arrived in Nigeria to assess facilities proposed for both the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly and the annual CAF Awards ceremony. The delegation was led by CAF’s Head of Safety and Security, Dr. Christian Emeruwa, alongside officials responsible for technology, travel and accommodation, transportation, and branding. The team was received by officials of the Lagos State Sports Commission, led by Director-General Lekan Fatodu, during an inspection of the National Theatre, which has been selected as the venue for the awards ceremony. Speaking after the visit, Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that Lagos is fully committed to delivering a world-class event. He noted that the inspection provided valuable feedback, adding that every aspect of the preparation is being carefully handled to ensure a successful hosting. According to the governor, the state is working behind the scenes to meet international standards and showcase Lagos as a capable destination for major sporting events. He expressed confidence that the city would provide an outstanding experience for African football stakeholders and fans. Nigeria has hosted the CAF Awards on four previous occasions, with the last edition taking place in Lagos in January 2015. While Abuja will host the CAF General Assembly on November 21, 2026, Lagos will stage the awards ceremony recognising Africa’s best footballers and other outstanding contributors to the sport. Before arriving in Lagos, the CAF delegation inspected facilities in Abuja, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, and the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, which will host delegates attending the General Assembly. The inspection tour is being coordinated by officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), including representatives from the federation’s media, marketing, security, protocol, and information technology departments. Nigeria secured the hosting rights for both CAF events after President Bola Tinubu approved the bid during the Africa Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya, following a request from CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe.

Education

New JAMB Registrar Rolls Out Five-Year Reform Agenda

The newly appointed Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Segun Aina, has introduced a five-year strategic plan aimed at transforming the examination body into Africa’s leading technology-driven and accessible assessment institution. According to a statement issued by JAMB’s Acting Director of Public Affairs and Protocol, Fabian Benjamin, the initiative, titled “JAMB 2031: Building Trust, Reducing Trauma,” was unveiled on Aina’s first day in office. The roadmap is designed to guide the Board’s activities over the next five years. The strategic agenda is built around two broad objectives, five key pillars, and seven flagship projects focused on improving efficiency, transparency, and innovation in JAMB’s operations. Aina said the Board would remain committed to ensuring fair, secure, and merit-based access to higher education through transparent registration processes and credible examinations. The first pillar, Integrity, focuses on strengthening public confidence by adopting internationally recognised standards such as ISO 27001 certification, conducting independent technology audits, and improving institutional transparency. The second pillar, Service, seeks to enhance customer satisfaction by improving communication and engagement with candidates, parents, tertiary institutions, and other stakeholders. The Governance pillar aims to strengthen accountability, performance monitoring, contract management, and operational efficiency. On technology, Aina said JAMB would expand its digital infrastructure by introducing scalable mobile and web platforms, while also leveraging artificial intelligence and data analytics to improve decision-making and service delivery. The fifth pillar, Partnerships, is expected to strengthen collaboration with financial institutions, fintech companies, educational organisations, and international partners to promote innovation. To implement the reform agenda, the Board plans to undertake seven major projects, including a comprehensive review of its technology infrastructure, the attainment of ISO 27001 information security certification, the launch of a unified JAMB mobile application, improved strategic communication, the establishment of a centralised customer service platform, the adoption of a paperless digital administration system, and enhanced staff welfare and professional development. Aina emphasised that while technology would play a critical role in JAMB’s transformation, the people behind the institution would remain its greatest strength. He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and integrity, noting that every candidate represents the aspirations of Nigerian families. He also encouraged staff members to embrace innovation, professionalism, and teamwork, describing his appointment as both a privilege and a responsibility. Aina pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, by strengthening institutional systems, improving service delivery, and positioning JAMB as a global model for technology-driven examination and admissions administration.

Politics

Atiku Dismisses Presidency’s Defence of Tinubu’s Policies

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed the Presidency’s defence of President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, arguing that the government’s claims of economic recovery do not reflect the daily realities faced by Nigerians. In a statement issued through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said that while the government highlights improvements in economic indicators, millions of Nigerians continue to grapple with rising poverty, food insecurity, and worsening living conditions. According to him, celebrating GDP growth and other macroeconomic figures means little to citizens who are struggling to afford basic necessities. He stressed that economic success should be measured by its impact on ordinary people rather than by statistics alone. Atiku referenced findings from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), noting that a significant proportion of Nigerians remain below the national poverty line and that millions continue to face food insecurity. While acknowledging that the IMF recognised progress in some reform areas, he pointed out that the organisation also emphasised the need for stronger social protection measures. He further questioned the government’s continued borrowing despite claims of improved revenue generation, subsidy removal, increased tax collection, and reduced debt servicing pressures. According to him, the real concern is whether borrowed funds have translated into better infrastructure, job creation, and improved living standards. The former vice president also criticised the administration’s handling of fuel subsidy removal, saying Nigerians accepted the need for reforms but were still waiting to see meaningful improvements in public services. He argued that citizens should not be expected to celebrate sacrifices without visible benefits. On healthcare, education, and infrastructure, Atiku maintained that isolated projects and programmes are not enough to qualify as comprehensive reforms. He said the government would ultimately be judged by completed projects that lower the cost of doing business, improve access to quality services, and enhance the welfare of citizens. He concluded by urging the Presidency to focus less on defending its economic record and more on addressing the hardship experienced by Nigerians. According to Atiku, governments are ultimately assessed by their ability to improve people’s lives, create opportunities, strengthen security, and restore hope for the future.

Entertainment

Frank Edoho Calls Lagos Property Prices ‘Armed Robbery’

Media personality Frank Edoho has criticised the soaring cost of real estate in Lagos, describing the state’s property market as “armed robbery” and questioning how Nigerians can afford the luxury homes being offered for sale. Edoho made the remarks during a recent episode of The KK Show, where he compared the prices of high-end properties in Lagos with those in other parts of the world, arguing that the local market is difficult to justify considering Nigeria’s economic conditions. According to him, the price of some luxury homes in Lagos is comparable to that of significantly more valuable assets abroad. He claimed that Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio owns an island valued at about $1.7 million, while a mansion in Osapa, Lagos, is reportedly listed for around $1.5 million despite what he described as inadequate infrastructure in the area. “What are we talking about? It’s armed robbery,” Edoho said while criticising the pricing of the property. The broadcaster also questioned the purchasing power of Nigerians, noting that wages have remained low despite the sharp increase in property prices. He pointed to the country’s minimum wage, which he said is below ₦100,000, and wondered how ordinary Nigerians could afford homes worth hundreds of millions of naira. Edoho further cited the depreciation of the naira and the country’s struggling economy, asking who the real buyers of such expensive properties are. When the programme’s host suggested that Nigerians living abroad account for a significant number of buyers, Edoho acknowledged that those earning in foreign currencies could afford such investments but questioned who was purchasing the properties from within Nigeria. He asked whether the clientele consisted mainly of government officials, internet fraudsters or pastors. Responding to the concerns, the property developer featured on the programme dismissed the suggestion that his customers largely belonged to those groups. He explained that property prices are determined by prevailing market conditions, adding that even clients who initially criticised the cost of homes often sold their own properties at similar market rates once they entered the market.

Elections, Politics

Osun Poll: Adeleke Says He’s Not Feeling Pressure

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has urged residents to come out in large numbers and vote in the August 15 governorship election, assuring them that their votes would count despite alleged intimidation. The governor made the appeal on Monday in Osogbo, the state capital, shortly after an interactive session with civil servants and pensioners at a programme titled A Day with Mr. Governor, organised by the Office of the Head of Service in collaboration with labour unions and pensioners. Adeleke said he was confident of victory and insisted he was not under pressure as the election approaches, attributing his confidence to the support of the people and his faith in God. He, however, expressed concerns about the neutrality of the police during the election but noted that members of the National Peace Committee had assured him they would engage with the security agency’s leadership following the signing of the Peace Accord by governorship candidates. “I am not under pressure because I have God on my side and the people of Osun are with me. We are fully prepared, and I urge everyone not to be afraid despite any intimidation. This is a democracy, and people should come out on August 15, perform their civic duty and vote because their votes will count,” he said. Adeleke added that although he was not confident in the police’s neutrality, he was hopeful that the intervention of the National Peace Committee would help ensure a peaceful and credible election. Also speaking at the event, the Osun State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Christopher Arapasopo, commended the Adeleke administration for introducing policies aimed at improving workers’ welfare and increasing pension payments. Addressing the gathering in Yoruba, Arapasopo urged residents not to be intimidated ahead of the election, saying the state should not return to what he described as the “dark days” under the All Progressives Congress. He noted that pension payments had improved significantly under the current administration, explaining that pensioners who previously received as little as ₦300, ₦1,500 and ₦3,000 now receive higher monthly payments, including ₦10,000 and ₦25,000. Arapasopo also called on workers and residents to support Adeleke’s re-election bid, expressing confidence that the governor would overcome political opposition. Osun voters are expected to head to the polls on Saturday, August 15, to elect the state’s next governor. Fourteen candidates will contest the election, including the incumbent governor, who is seeking another term on the platform of the Accord Party.

Metro

Ogun Communities Receive 52 Boreholes from Philanthropists

Residents of Ijebu Ode, Odoyanta and Imosan in Ogun State have praised philanthropist Omooba Abimbola Onabanjo and his wife, Olori Abayomi Onabanjo, following the donation of 52 motorised boreholes aimed at improving access to clean water across communities in Ijebuland. The borehole projects, spread across several communities within the Ijebu Ode district, were inaugurated over the weekend as part of the couple’s efforts to tackle water scarcity in rural areas. Speaking during the inauguration, the donors’ representative, Funmilayo Ayanwusi, said the initiative marked the beginning of a broader development plan for Ijebuland. She explained that 12 boreholes have been completed under the first phase of the project, while construction of the remaining 40 is ongoing. According to Ayanwusi, the completed boreholes are located in Mokorede, Aiyegun, Ijasi Oke, Olukokun Isale, Olumuroko, Fusengbuwa, Ita Afin, Fusigboye, Odo Esa, Igbogun/Ilede, Imosan and Odoyanta. She added that each facility is equipped with a power generator, while the donor has also committed to funding maintenance and fuel costs for a specified period. Describing the intervention as only the beginning, Ayanwusi said more developmental projects would follow to position Ijebuland alongside some of the country’s leading urban centres. She noted that the initiative reflects the donor’s commitment to humanitarian service and giving back to society. Chairman of the Olorituns-in-Council in Ijebu Ode, High Chief Adebisi Alausa, described the project as unprecedented, saying it was the first time an individual had provided 52 motorised boreholes for communities within such a short period. He commended the donors for investing personal resources in projects that directly improve residents’ welfare and urged beneficiaries to protect the facilities from vandalism and ensure they are properly maintained. At the inauguration in Odoyanta, the Regent of the community, High Chief Abdullahi Adekoya, described the intervention as exceptional, noting that no individual had previously embarked on a similar project in the area. He also praised the decision to provide free fuel and maintenance for one year, assuring the donors that the community would protect the boreholes and continue to support them with prayers. Chairman of the Odoyanta Central Committee, High Chief Awonuga Titus, also expressed appreciation for the gesture and wished the donors greater success in future endeavours. Residents from the benefiting communities celebrated the commissioning of the projects, describing Onabanjo as a philanthropist committed to improving the lives of his people. The spokesperson for the Ijebu Ode Council of Olorituns, Chief Oluwafemi Kareem Adagojo, thanked the donors for the intervention, saying the community would continue to pray for them because “he who brings water brings life.”

Politics

Alex Otti Makes Good on Promise, Covers Ngozi Nwosu’s Medical Bill

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has fulfilled his pledge to support veteran Nollywood actress Ngozi Nwosu by paying ₦25 million towards the cost of her ongoing medical treatment. The actress recently appealed for public assistance after revealing that she was battling an undisclosed health condition that requires three surgical procedures. According to Nwosu, she needed ₦30 million to cover the cost of the surgeries. The governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Tourism and Entertainment, J Martins, confirmed that the payment had been made directly to the hospital where the actress is receiving treatment. In a post on X, Martins said Governor Otti approved the payment before the close of business and expressed appreciation for the governor’s support, describing the gesture as an act of kindness that would be remembered. The ₦25 million donation covers the majority of the actress’s medical expenses, leaving a balance of ₦5 million to complete the required treatment. The intervention comes despite Nwosu’s previous criticism of the Abia State Government. In 2024, the actress stated that she would no longer offer free services to the state, alleging that she received no government support during an earlier health challenge in 2012. Her recent appeal for financial assistance attracted widespread attention and renewed calls from fans, colleagues and well-wishers before Governor Otti stepped in to provide financial support. The donation has been widely viewed as a significant contribution towards ensuring the actress receives the medical care she needs.

Health, Politics

Singapore-Based Lab Moves Promising Ebola Vaccine Into Clinical Trials

Singapore-based Hilleman Laboratories has announced plans to advance the development of a vaccine candidate targeting the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to battle one of the deadliest outbreaks of the disease. The Bundibugyo strain currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the ongoing outbreak has claimed nearly 1,500 lives, prompting intensified efforts to develop effective medical interventions. WHO has identified a single-dose vaccine built on the recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) platform as the most promising candidate. The technology is the same platform used in Ervebo, the only licensed Ebola vaccine, which provides protection against the Zaire strain of the virus. Hilleman Laboratories said it will move the rVSV Bundibugyo vaccine into the next stage of development to prepare it for human clinical trials. The organisation, a partnership between pharmaceutical company MSD and the Wellcome Trust, said the project is intended to speed up the availability of a vaccine against the emerging Ebola strain. Chief Executive Officer of Hilleman Laboratories, Raman Rao, said the organisation is working to produce vaccine doses for clinical testing as quickly as possible. MSD, which developed and manufactures Ervebo, will provide technical support and expertise throughout the development process. The programme is being funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is supporting the Bundibugyo vaccine candidate alongside other Ebola vaccine research projects. If the vaccine proves safe and effective during clinical trials and receives regulatory approval, CEPI and Hilleman Laboratories said they aim to ensure affordable and rapid distribution of doses to countries affected by Ebola outbreaks, particularly low- and middle-income nations. Unlike the existing Ervebo vaccine, which requires ultra-cold storage, the new candidate is being designed to remain stable for several months under standard refrigeration. This could significantly improve vaccine storage, transportation and access in remote communities with limited cold-chain infrastructure. WHO experts had earlier indicated that it could take between seven and nine months before the vaccine reaches the clinical trial evaluation stage. The vaccine works by using a modified vesicular stomatitis virus as a carrier to deliver a Bundibugyo Ebola protein into the body, triggering an immune response capable of providing protection against the virus. The announcement follows the recent administration of a separate Bundibugyo vaccine candidate, developed by Oxford University, to its first volunteer as part of an accelerated clinical trial. Health authorities say the current Ebola outbreak in the DRC is the third-largest ever recorded. Since May, more than 3,300 infections and nearly 1,500 deaths have been confirmed, with the northeastern Ituri province remaining the epicentre of the outbreak. Uganda has also reported confirmed infections, including fatalities. Ebola is a severe viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated bodily fluids, making rapid detection, isolation and vaccination essential in controlling outbreaks.