The Nations Reporters

  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident that claimed the lives of members of the Kano State contingent returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival held in Ogun State. In a condolence message released on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga , the President described the incident as a “devastating blow to the nation.” He extended heartfelt sympathies to the Government and people of Kano State, as well as to the bereaved families. “This tragedy casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival — an event that celebrates unity, talent, and national excellence,” the statement read. A Nation in Mourning President Tinubu paid tribute to the victims, commending their passion, dedication, and aspirations, which he said represented the enduring spirit of the Nigerian youth. “Their lives and dreams embodied the resilient Nigerian spirit. Their loss is felt not only in Kano but across the natio...

  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated six new assets into the Nigerian Navy fleet — three Fast Patrol Boats (NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI) and three AW109 Trekker helicopters (501, 502, and 503) — reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to maritime security. The commissioning ceremony took place on Saturday in Lagos, with the President represented by the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Bello Matawalle. Tinubu emphasized the strategic importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, describing the newly commissioned assets as “force multipliers” in the ongoing fight against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes. “The sea has remained a pillar of our nation’s economic prosperity. For nearly 70 years, the Nigerian Navy has stood guard over our blue waters,” he said. He noted that the induction of the vessels and aircraft reflects the government’s resolve to empower national institutions and protect critical maritime resources. Strong Navy, S...

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi , has clarified that the Federal Government did not demolish any Landmark Africa property during the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway . Speaking on Saturday in Lagos during the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway , Umahi addressed claims by Landmark Africa , operators of Landmark Beach , who alleged that their properties worth billions of naira were destroyed during the highway construction. The minister, while briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu —who officially inaugurated the first phase—emphasized that Landmark’s main infrastructure remains untouched . According to Umahi, the only section affected was Landmark’s encroachment on the Federal Government’s shoreline . “Mr. President, I want to confirm that Landmark’s main property was not harmed. What was affected was their encroachment on the Federal Government’s front shoreline. The Supreme Court has already ruled that 250 meters from the shoreline belo...

Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, on Thursday launched the construction of the Yola International Conference and Event Centre as part of activities commemorating his sixth anniversary in office. The ambitious project, valued at ₦19.9 billion, is slated for completion within 12 months and is expected to stimulate economic growth, attract investments, and boost the state's internally generated revenue. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Fintiri described the initiative as a transformative investment that will reposition Adamawa as a regional hub for business, tourism, and events. “This centre will open up the state for greater investment and tourism. Its multiplier effects will include job creation for our youths and increased revenue,” he said. He added that the facility would not only serve as a catalyst for economic development in Yola but also extend benefits to surrounding towns and villages. “The project will create direct and indirect jobs, as i...

President Bola Tinubu has praised the Ogun State Government for successfully hosting a world-class 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, which concluded in Abeokuta on Thursday. Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu joined Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, and other top dignitaries from across the country at the closing ceremony held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. The festival wrapped up after 12 days of intense and vibrant competition across Abeokuta and other designated venues in the state. President Tinubu also lauded the determination and sportsmanship of the athletes who brought life to the games from May 16 to May 30. “To every athlete who competed, consider yourself discovered. Your participation symbolizes the unity and cooperative spirit that defines our federal system and strengthens our nation,” he said. “Your enthusiasm and dedication played a vital role in the success of this remarkable event ho...

 The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to empowering Nigerian youth and advancing human rights and social inclusion as essential pillars for national development. Speaking during the launch of the  Good Governance Advocacy Programme  tagged  #VoiceHearingAction  in Abuja on Thursday, the  Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) ,  Lanre Issa-Onilu , underscored the critical role young people play in shaping the country’s future. Issa-Onilu, who was represented by the  Director of Youth Research, Engagement, and Inclusion ,  Onyema Ngozi , described Nigerian youth as the driving force of the nation. “Youth are the powerhouse of the country. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population made up of young people, their energy, creativity, and resilience are indispensable to achieving good governance and lasting progress,” he said. He noted that the government had identified a gap in youth engagement, which led to the esta...

 As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration marks its second year in office, former President Muhammadu Buhari has offered both praise and caution, urging Nigerians to manage their expectations while warning against allowing “nettlesome domestic politics” to undermine critical reforms. In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, Buhari congratulated President Tinubu on reaching the midterm milestone and emphasized that the path to reform is gradual and not without challenges. “Reforms don’t yield results overnight,” Buhari stated. “They require time, commitment, and collective effort. The necessary changes should not be sacrificed on the altar of political bickering.” The statement, titled  ‘Tinubu Gets Buhari’s Praise, Advice At Midterm’ , acknowledged the economic hardships facing Nigerians, particularly among the poorest, due to inflation and other pressures. Buhari stressed that tackling these issues cannot rest solely on...

 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his significant role in transforming Ogun State’s infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. He noted major strides in road construction, housing, and public services, which have collectively boosted the state’s economy. The President’s remarks were delivered by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a thanksgiving service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to celebrate Abiodun’s 65th birthday and his sixth year in office. "Over the past six years, your leadership has turned Ogun State into a model of progress with remarkable achievements in infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, social welfare, agriculture, and food security," Tinubu stated. He further praised the governor’s transparent and inclusive approach to governance, which has promoted innovation, stability, and sustainable development. "Ogun State now stands out as a key destination for...

  President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s firm resolve to combat corruption and reclaim looted public assets, stating emphatically that "there will be no safe haven for corruption in Nigeria." Speaking on Tuesday at the Ministry of Justice Asset Recovery Summit in Abuja, themed “Synergising Towards an Effective Assets Recovery and Management,” Tinubu, represented by Madugu Gagare, Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, emphasized that asset recovery remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts. “Asset recovery sends a strong message—corruption will find no refuge in Nigeria. We are committed to restoring public trust and ensuring every kobo of recovered funds is used for the public good,” he declared. The president condemned the harmful impact of corruption on national development, especially in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He stressed that recovered fun...

 The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) closed on a bullish note on Tuesday, as renewed investor interest in blue-chip stocks—particularly Airtel Africa and leading insurance firms—propelled the equities market capitalisation past the ₦70tn milestone. At the close of trading, the All-Share Index (ASI) surged by 1,721.29 points , or 1.57% , to settle at 111,606.22 basis points . This rally led to a ₦1.09tn increase in market capitalisation , bringing it to ₦70.38tn , up from ₦69.29tn in the previous session. The positive momentum was driven by a 10% gain in Airtel Africa , which closed at ₦2,372.50 per share , along with impressive performances by insurance stocks like Cornerstone Insurance and AXA Mansard . Out of 126 equities traded , 36 advanced , 21 declined , while 69 remained unchanged . Top Gainers Omatek Ventures : +9.23% to ₦0.71 Cornerstone Insurance : +8.63% to ₦3.40 NAHCO : +8.39% to ₦80.75 UPDC : +6.47% to ₦5.10 AXA Mansard : +5.88% to ₦9.00 Top Losers M...

  Athletes representing Ogun State at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, disrupted the Games on Wednesday as they protested the non-payment of their allowances—just two days before the conclusion of the Gateway Games 2024. According to videos and photos shared by officials at the Games Village, athletes in Ogun-branded tracksuits were seen blocking buses scheduled to transport participants to various sporting venues. The protest reportedly began as early as 5:30 a.m., leaving other athletes and officials stranded. An Ogun athlete who spoke to PUNCH Online confirmed that the protest had been pre-planned the night before, following a meeting among team members. He added that they had yet to receive any payments and were not informed about how much the state government intended to pay them as allowances. Before the festival began, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun had promised cash rewards of ₦2.5 million for every gold medalist, ₦1.5 mil...

 In today’s digital world, it’s easy to forget the undeniable impact of outdoor advertising Lagos and billboard advertising Abuja . But for thousands of businesses in Nigeria, out of home advertising is not just a choice—it’s a powerful way to connect with audiences where they live, work, and travel. That’s where FPL Media comes in. As a trusted Lagos outdoor advertising company , FPL Media has been at the forefront of OOH advertising for years. With a vast network of billboard placements in Lagos and Abuja , we help brands amplify their message across highway advertising Nigeria routes and premium urban locations. Why Choose FPL Media? FPL Media isn’t just another billboard company in Lagos . We offer outdoor media buying Nigeria services that are tailored to your brand’s needs. Whether you’re a startup looking to make a splash or a multinational aiming for market dominance, we have the premium billboard locations Nigeria to make it happen. Our team specializes in Abuja...

 President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has announced that the company is on track to export approximately 16,000 tonnes of fertiliser daily within the next two years—an initiative expected to generate between $6.5 million and $7 million in daily revenue for Nigeria. Dangote made this known on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) headquarters in Marina, Lagos. He noted that the fertiliser export programme would position Dangote Industries as a major contributor to Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings. “In the next two years, we will be exporting about 16,000 tonnes of fertiliser daily. That’s roughly $6.5 to $7 million in daily inflows to the country,” he stated. “With this level of export, our company will become a leading source of forex earnings for Nigeria.” The industrialist also revealed that coal exports would begin in the coming weeks, alongside increased output from the Dangote Refinery. “In a few weeks, we will start expo...

  As Nigeria marks this year’s International Children’s Day, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Danladi Jatau, has called for urgent action to eradicate child labour, street begging, hawking, and the growing number of out-of-school children—practices he described as harmful to the development and well-being of children in society. In a statement issued on Tuesday in Lafia by his Press Secretary, Jibrin Gwamna, Jatau reaffirmed the commitment of the 7th Assembly to enacting laws and passing resolutions that safeguard children's rights and promote access to quality education. He congratulated children across the state’s 13 local government areas on the occasion of Children’s Day and urged governments at all levels to prioritize policies that ensure every Nigerian child receives the education and care necessary to secure their future. “Children are special gifts from God,” the Speaker said. “It is imperative for parents, guardians, and relevant authorities to pro...

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Dele Momodu, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for suspending the recent sealing of properties in Abuja over unpaid ground rents—a move he described as a clear indication that the President is firmly in control of his administration. On Monday, May 26, officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), acting under the directive of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, sealed several establishments in Abuja. Affected premises included banks, petrol stations, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office, and the national headquarters of the PDP, allegedly over unpaid ground rents running into billions of Naira. However, following public outcry and criticism from stakeholders and property owners, President Tinubu intervened and ordered an immediate suspension of the enforcement exercise. He also granted a 14-day grace period for all affected parties to regularize their ground rent obligations. Reacting to the development via Instagram, M...

President Bola Tinubu is set to inaugurate Section I of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on Saturday, May 31, as part of his official visit to Lagos, the Presidency announced on Monday. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the landmark infrastructure projects under Tinubu’s administration. Saturday’s inauguration will also include other key projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port Tax Credit Concrete Road, the launch of Section II of the Coastal Highway, and the 7th Axial Road. According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President will also virtually commission several critical road projects across northern Nigeria. These include the Kano-Kanwar-Danja-Hadejiya Section II, Yakasai-Zalli Road, Kano Northern By-pass, Zaria-Hunkuyi-Dabai Section I, Dabai-Kafur-Malumfashi, and Malumfashi-Dayi-Yashe-Gidan Mutum Daya Section III. President Tinubu will arrive in Lagos on Tuesday to also participate in activit...

  Officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the directive of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, on Monday sealed the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja over alleged non-payment of ground rent. At exactly 2:06 p.m., FCTA enforcement officers arrived at Wadata Plaza, the PDP’s national secretariat in Wuse Zone 5, and locked the main entrance, effectively shutting down access to the building. The action is part of an ongoing enforcement drive launched by the FCTA targeting properties with long-standing ground rent debts. On Sunday, the administration announced the revocation of 4,794 land titles across the Federal Capital Territory, citing default periods ranging from 10 to 43 years. The PDP headquarters joins a growing list of sealed properties, which include the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office, an Access Bank branch, and a Total petrol station in Wuse, all accused of similar violations. FCTA officials say the cl...

  The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has strongly criticised the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for sealing one of its offices in Abuja, calling the action “malicious” and “unprofessional.” In a statement issued via X (formerly Twitter), Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the FIRS Executive Chairman, accused the FCTA of unfairly targeting the agency without justification. “It is highly unprofessional of the Wike-led FCTA to close our office, thereby disrupting staff from carrying out their duties—especially during a critical week when we are finalising the Tax Reform Bills. FCTA, you have erred gravely. FIRS owes you nothing,” Atoyebi said. She further alleged that the FCTA was attempting to make FIRS a scapegoat in a broader campaign against defaulters, warning that the action could severely impact the agency’s operations. “If you’re looking for a fall guy, look elsewhere,” she added. “The malicious misinformation being circulat...

  The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Monday sealed off offices, from an Access Bank branch to a Total petrol station in Zone 6, Wuse, Abuja, for failing to pay ground rent for 34 years. According to official documents, the land where the Access Bank branch is located is registered under Rana Tahir Furniture Nigeria Limited—not Access Bank itself. In a letter dated March 13, 2025, and signed by the Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, the FCT Minister revoked the right to the land, citing the Land Use Act of 1978. The letter read: “The revocation is due to your continued failure to pay the ground rent on Plot No. 2456 in Wuse I, Zone A02, Abuja, for 34 years, which goes against the terms of your land allocation.” The FCTA also sealed the office of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in Abuja for similar reasons. These closures are part of a wider effort to enforce payment of ground rent across the Federal Capital Territory. Officials ...

  Nigerian athlete Tobi Amusan won the women’s 100m hurdles at the Rabat Diamond League on Sunday, setting a new meet record of 12.45 seconds. She broke the previous record of 12.51 seconds, which was set by American Brianna McNeal in 2018. This is a big achievement for Amusan, who is also the 2022 World Champion and current world record holder. The race happened just before the main event broadcast, and Amusan clearly stood out, finishing far ahead of the others. Her time of 12.45 seconds is also her best time this season. Nadine Visser from the Netherlands came second with a season-best time of 12.67 seconds, and Poland’s Pia Skrzyszowska came third with a season-best of 12.69 seconds. Other top performances include: Ditaji Kambundji (Switzerland): 12.71s (SB) Giada Carmassi (Italy): 12.81s (Personal Best) Elena Carraro: 12.89s Destiny Huven (USA): 12.93s Sacha Alessandrini (France): 12.96s (SB) Karin Strametz (Austria): 13.08s (SB) The wind reading for t...

  The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Uganda Airlines, has launched the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor. This major export initiative is part of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) plan. Speaking at the launch event on Africa Day at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said the new cargo route will give Nigerian exporters easier access to Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa. Exporters will also enjoy a 50% to 75% discount on logistics costs, including regulatory charges. This move supports President Bola Tinubu’s promise to grow Nigeria’s non-oil exports by using AfCFTA to open up trade across Africa. The corridor is designed to help Nigerian businesses—especially small and medium-sized ones (MSMEs)—grow their reach into other African countries with cheaper shipping, faster delivery,...

  The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has asked Nigerians not to judge the entire police force because of the bad behavior of a few officers. He made this statement in response to a post by an X.com user, #torty_mercy, who wrote, “I hate the Nigerian police! I can’t even say it as it is in my heart! I hate those monsters!” Replying on Sunday through his official X.com account, Adejobi asked people to be fair and see the bigger picture when talking about the police. He wrote, “Don’t condemn the police force. Don’t hate the Nigeria Police Force and its officers. You can dislike the actions or bad behavior of a few officers who give the force a bad name. “When you meet many of the officers, you’ll realize they’re good people and you’ll understand and appreciate the police better.” He admitted that some officers misbehave, but said they are only a small number. “We know there are a few difficult individuals in the system, but they are ...

  The 2023 governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Rivers State, Senator Magnus Abe, has encouraged Nigerian students to get involved in politics and help build the nation. Abe, who once represented Rivers South-East in the National Assembly, said that although students should focus on their education, it’s also important for them to be part of political activities because the decisions made in politics affect their lives directly. He added, “While studying, you should also stay informed about what’s happening in the state, especially in politics.” He explained, “Whoever becomes governor, local government chairman, president, or a member of the House of Assembly, Senate, or House of Representatives will make decisions that affect the people they represent. “So, as a student, you should be ready to vote. If you have your voter card, make sure you go out and vote for the candidate you believe in on election day.” Abe made these remarks while speaking to jou...